Natural treatments for cats and dogs to help prevent fleas and relieve itching due to flea bites.

Flea Bites

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What are Flea Bites?
Diagnosing Flea Bites
Help for Flea Bites
More Information on Flea Bites

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What are Flea Bites?

Fleas are small insects that live on your pets – causing much irritation. Flea bites generally result in the formation of a slightly-*raised swollen itching spot on the skin surface* with a single puncture wound. This may cause intense itching and scratching for the host animal (your pet!). Furthermore, an animal may be allergic to the flea saliva present on the skin – leading to a condition known as flea bite dermatitis.

Diagnosing Flea Bites

Flea bites will most likely cause your pet to scratch incessantly (often until the skin is raw, weeping and even bleeding) and lick at certain spots on the skin. This also causes hot spots of skin that may lose hair and become bald from constant scratching or licking at the itchy area.

Diagnosis is usually determined when fleas are seen on the surface of the skin, usually at the base of the tail. Flea bites are also visible – and usually spotted during a check up at your vet, where an inspection of your animal’s skin will be undertaken. Treatment for flea bites will usually involve topical creams and may include antihistamines; however, these may also have the potential for side effects.

Help for Flea Bites

Natural Remedies

There are many herbal and homeopathic remedies that use proven ingredients shown to have a soothing effect on irritated skin. Matricaria recutita is widely used as a gentle cleansing and soothing herb where bites are concerned. Galium aperine has been used for many centuries as a cleansing tonic to treat superficial wounds and bites. Calendula officinalis is also very beneficial to the skin, helping to soothe rashes and itchiness. Hamamelis virginianum and Graphites also help to promote skin health and assist with natural skin hydration due to their excellent skin conditioning properties.

More Information on Flea Bites

Tips for Fleas

Always clean animal bedding, carpets, rugs and surrounding areas thoroughly.
Vacuum regularly and throw away the vacuum cleaner bag (it will contain fleas and eggs).
De-flea your pet regularly.
Treat outdoor areas such as kennels, making sure to wear gloves and long-sleeved protective clothing.
Repeat your anti-flea procedure now and then – flea eggs can survive for weeks!
If fleas persist in the home, consult a qualified pest controller.