Flea allergy dermatitis: the most common dog allergy

“Harmless as a flea” may be a common expression but, unfortunately, fleas are not entirely harmless. At the very least, a flea bite will cause an animal to scratch. Because one flea is just a sign of many fleas, animals typically get multiple flea bites, which causes even more scratching.

You may not think a few flea bites amount to much, but they can be a source of your pet’s constant scratching. If this scratching continues, the flea bites can become infected, and lead to a skin condition called flea allergy dermatitis.  A report by CNN indicates flea allergy dermatitis is a growing problem for pets.

Flea bites are considerably worse if the dog or cat is allergic to the flea’s saliva. According to Sandra Diaz, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech, the most common form of allergic reaction in dogs is to flea saliva. 

In smaller sized animals such as puppies, and sometimes in young children, fleas can actually cause anemia. The host loses blood through the flea bites and excessive scratching and becomes anemic. Anemia is a serious condition if it remains untreated.

Natural Flea Control Products We Recommend:

Happy Tails Dry Dog Instant Clean

Happy Tails Sparkle & Shine Shimmering Mist

Happy Tails Healthy Skin Shiny Coat

Dogs and cats can scratch flea bites until they bleed and even become infected. This just makes it easier for fleas to get more blood from their victim, so it really is a vicious circle for an untreated animal.

One effective natural remedy for flea bites, which soothes and heals the flea bites themselves and helps prevent fleas from returning is neem oil. Neem oil is derived from a plant widely used by native Americans. When diluted with water and mixed with vinegar, neem oil can be applied directly to an animal’s skin.

More information about flea allergy dermatitis and natural, safe, effective methods and substances you can use to control fleas is available in Flea Control: How to Get Rid of Fleas Naturally.

Diatomaceous earth, sometimes referred to as “DE,” is a natural substance that is actually created from the remains of diatoms, microscopic water plants that are like algae. It contains such minerals as silicon, calcium, sodium, and magnesium. It has a consistency similar to talcum powder and is available at most garden suppliers.

This is a remarkable substance that is a desiccant – it actually dries out the waxy outer layer of fleas so they dehydrate and eventually die. As an added benefit, diatomaceous earth can eliminate other insects.

So yes, in some respects, it is a miracle cure for fleas. It’s a product we’re pretty proud of, and consider to be worth the investment in the long term, in the same way you’d invest in insulation. Never having to worry about fleas working their way deep into your home is a comforting thought for those with pets who love the outdoors.

But even though diatomaceous earth is a natural substance, its dust is dangerous to breathe for both humans and animals. Using it requires gloves and a dust mask. Be certain to read any cautions that come with the product and use it only as directed.

Outside the home, spread it around the foundation and entry points. Inside the home, spread it around windows, doorways, and baseboards and rub it into the carpet. If you use this method, always use gloves, a dust mask, and goggles, and leave the house for several hours after use. It is not safe to inhale this substance when any particles are floating in the air. Fish, birds, and animals should not be left in the house. When you return, vacuum thoroughly.

Some people spread diatomaceous earth directly on their pets, essentially using it as a flea powder. If you do this, be aware of the potential risks. Since it is a drying agent, diatomaceous earth can dry out your pet’s skin. It can also be irritating to the eyes and lungs. Make sure you are using “food grade” diatomaceous earth if you want to try it on your pet.

Watch the accompanying video for an interesting if lengthy explanation of diatomaceous earth.

Diatomaceous earth is one of the natural substances discussed in Flea Control: How to Get Rid of Fleas Naturally.

Watch an interview with accomplished author Barry Silverstein where he shares his motivations for writing the book, the risks with commercial products, and free tips and tricks you can use immediately .

Video Timeline
0 – 1:00 Barry´s background/motivation for writing the book
1:00 – 1:55 What does “naturally” mean?
1:55 – 2:35 Why use a natural flea control approach?
2:35 – 3:55 Risks with common commercial flea control products
3:55 – 4:30 Where to apply natural flea control treatments
4:30 – 7:20 Barry shares specific natural flea control tips

Natural Flea Control Products We Recommend:

Natural Flea and Tick Spray for Cats

Natural Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs

Natural Defense Flea & Tick Squeeze-On

Author Barry Silverstein shares with us interesting facts about the flea life-cycle and  natural flea control strategy. This is in audio book style.