Breaking the Flea Life Cycle

Insecticides, continued:

Diatom dust - the natural skeletal remains of microscopic plankton, diatom dust contains tiny shards of silica which scratch holes in the outer shells of insects such as fleas. The insect then loses fluids and dies of dehydration. Diatom dust can be used on surfaces and in the garden but not on pets directly. Great care should be taken not to breathe diatom dust as it will irritate the lungs.

Boric Acid - A natural salt finely ground, boric acid (borate, borax) can be used on surfaces to dehydrate fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae. The salt absorbs water from the air, creating a micro-environment too dry for the insects to survive. Would probably not affect pupal stage insects. Similar in toxicity to table salt. Takes at least two weeks to achieve its full effectiveness, but lasts about one year provided surfaces such as carpeting are not washed.

Aromatic oils - The natural extracts of plants such as cedar, eucalyptus, peppermint, citronella, rue, or citrus fruits are repellent to fleas. Very high concentrations are required to actually kill fleas. Relatively low toxicity to people and pets, some may be sensitive to higher concentrations.

Chemical flea powders and flea collars - These contain compounds such as Diazinon and Dursban which are strong nerve toxins. Flea powders aerosolize easily guaranteeing that the insecticide will be breathed in by both the pet and the person applying it. Collars are intended for extended use so that a high level of poison is concentrated around the pet's neck. Powders and collars represent an unacceptable level of risk when compared to the low level of effectiveness of both these forms of application. ANIMAL CRACKERS PET SUPPLY DOES NOT CARRY CHEMICAL FLEA POWDERS OR COLLARS.

Insect Growth Regulators: These are synthetic hormones that prevent flea eggs from developing into larvae. They do not affect the adult or pupae stages. Because these are insect hormones, not mammalian hormones, theoretically they are completely biochemically unrecognisable and therefore non-toxic to cats and dogs.

How to Resolve a Flea Infestation