Boric Acid Powder for Fleas

Fleas are a nuisance for pets. They cause itching, mange and other skin reactions that create discomfort and pain. Because fleas multiply quickly, they are one of the biggest problems pet owners face today. It is estimated that about $9 billion is spent every year on flea control. One low-cost flea control option that pet owners consider is boric acid powder. You can safely and effectively rid your pet and your house of fleas by sprinkling boric acid powder where fleas dwell.

Description

Boric acid powder is one of the oldest pesticide compounds around. It is a colorless, odorless powder that comes from borates, which are naturally found in rocks, seawater and soil. The powder is mined from the Mojave Desert in California, and it effectively kills all kinds of pests, including fleas. Most commercial pesticides use boric acid as an ingredient.

Advantages

Boric acid powder is odorless, and it does not leave stains on furniture or carpet. You can sprinkle it sparingly without having to worry about damage to your household items. Unlike other pesticides, it is not highly toxic to humans or pets, and you don't have to worry about inhaling any dangerous fumes. Also, fleas cannot detect the powder; therefore, they return to areas treated with boric acid repeatedly, unknowingly being poisoned.

Effectiveness

Boric acid powder removes moisture from a flea's body and causes severe dehydration. It also kills flea larvae. It takes three to 10 days for the powder to kill fleas. Since it is undetectable, it continues to kill fleas long-term. When used properly, it can be just as effective as hiring a professional fumigator.

Proper Use

For successful treatment of fleas, you must properly apply boric acid powder to the infested areas. You should use squeezable plastic bottles with narrow dispenser tips, similar to the plastic ketchup or mustard dispensers found in restaurants, to hold and distribute the powder. For best results, do not place heavy layers of the powder in infested areas. It is better to squeeze a light layer of powder onto a surface, just enough to lightly cover the area. You can lightly sprinkle it on carpet, furniture, dog bedding, and also into crevices where fleas may hide.

Precautions

Never use boric acid powder on countertops or other areas where you prepare food. If any powder drifts into these areas, make sure you wipe it away with a damp, soapy cloth. Pregnant women should not use the powder because it may cause pregnancy complications. Although it is not toxic to humans or pets, you should never directly apply it to your pet. You should use other direct-application pet treatments in conjunction with boric acid powder for the most successful flea treatment plan.

References

• Boric Acid Powder: All-Natural Insecticide
• Ask the Exterminator: Boric Acid