Veterinarians generally advise against the use of diatomaceous earth for fleas on cats and dogs.
Diatomaceous earth in carpet for fleas.
Fleas are external blood sucking parasites that can live on pets and in homes.
There is some evidence that environmental application of diatomaceous earth to the indoor environment including carpets and cat scratchers can kill fleas in the environment says dr.
These powdered fossils are a natural pesticide used mostly for bedbugs but are potentially effective against any carpet pests.
Jennifer coates a veterinary writer editor and consultant.
These plant particles have razor sharp edges that cut through an insect s protective covering and dehydrate them potentially killing the insect.
Using diatomaceous earth for fleas in your home varies slightly depending on whether you have carpet.
Diatomaceous earth is extremely effective for killing fleas that are hiding in carpets either in your home or even outside where your pets might enjoy taking a rest.
This ensures that the eggs larvae as well as adult fleas are taken care of by the powder.
Allow the diatomaceous earth to remain on the carpets for at least 3 days before vacuuming.
If you have carpet you can use a carpet brush and work the diatomaceous earth into the carpet.
Let the diatomaceous earth work its magic.
Don t forget hard to reach areas like under tables.
If you don t have any carpets it can also be used on hardwood floors as a very effective way to kill off any flea infestations that may have found its way into your life.
De is a safe and natural type of pesticide as long as you buy the food grade de and not another type.
Try to identify all the areas where your dog likes to spend time.
Give the compound a few.
Food grade diatomaceous earth powder can be sprinkled on carpets bedding on sofas and soft furnishings and in the yard to control fleas.
One of the best methods of treatment is by using diatomaceous earth also know as de to kill them.
This might include the carpet sofa beds pillows and dog beds.
How to use diatomaceous earth for fleas.
Because the abrasive action of diatomaceous earth kills fleas you don t have to worry that the powder will lose its flea killing effectiveness.
If your pet has fleas then you likely need to know how to use diatomaceous earth for fleas in the house since these parasites don t just stay on your pet s coat.
Elizabeth falk a board certified veterinary dermatologist at cornell university veterinary specialists in stamford connecticut.
Do not apply diatomaceous earth directly to your pet.
Due to the nature of how diatomaceous earth kills fleas it won t work instantly.
Fleas love carpet it s like a comfortable nest for their offspring.
It is not effective for flea control when used in this manner and could potentially result in lung damage if inhaled says dr.