Summer months bring bugs and one of the most annoying of then all (besides bed bugs, termites, and mosquitoes) are fleas! Not only do they give humans the itchies, but they bite and bother our beloved pets. While there are incredibly effective topical treatments like Advantage and Revolution, these toxic chemicals have recently come under review by the FDA for their safety. So where do pet lovers turn to next? Technology!
There's been an increase in the number of high tech flea solutions of late. These gadgets use heat, light or electric frequencies to kill the suckers while keeping your pets safe. Here's a small roundup of some of the more promising gizmos. We haven't had a chance to try these, but if any of you have and care to share your experience, please do so in the comments section.
- The Flea Zapper Electronic Comb emits a low electronic frequency that's kills fleas on contact. Just brush the comb through and the electric charge will penetrate their shells, while keeping your pet safe. Dead fleas collect on the comb, which also helps keep your cat or dog's 'do in check.
- Flea Trap is based on Kansas State University patent. Similar to a fly trap, this gizmo uses a specific light wavelength to draw fleas nestled in pets, furniture, and rugs to it's plastic case. Once there, the buggers fall through the grid and onto a sticky mat within, where they meet with the Grim Reaper.
- Riddex Ionic Flea Comb emits an electric pulse that kills fleas as you comb. It also emits millions of tiny ions that the company claims, "clean, soften and add luster to your pet's coat..."
Images: brewbooks, Smarthome, Orrville Pets, Amazon





Shaw's Original Fir...
I've definitely lost faith in riddex products, we have them plugged around the house and the bugs keep playing their "dare to touch Mamina" game while I sleep. Won't hang on to this issue right now. I'm a little interested in the flea zapper, although I would like to read a few reviews on the product before paying that much. There is a flea trap you can make with a bowl of water sitting under a lamp, I just can't remember what is it that you have to put in the water, soap maybe? so they can't jump out. If I get my hands on the zapper I'll come back and let you know how it went.
@koyaniskatzy: Definitely let us know if you try the zapper. Borax powder is a safe flea killer, but you have to sprinkle it on everything and keep it layered for a day or two to kill the fleas.
I've had luck with Buck Mountain Herbal Gold flea powder: http://www.pethealthandnutritioncenter.com/store/product/buck-mountain-botanicals-organic-parasite-dust/
You sprinkle it on your pets. It's not harmful and it's totally organic. Much, much safer than the chemicals in Rx flea meds.
I put dishwashing liquid (clear in color) in a white bowl of water and shine a flashlight in there and always get at least a handful of fleas when I try it. I'm ready to give up on frontline.