What is Kennel Cough?

Dogs can contract an infectious bronchitis (known as ‘kennel cough’), which brings on a distinct hacking cough that many people describe as ’something stuck in my dog’s throat’ [1]. Comparable to a chest cold in humans, kennel cough can become a serious matter in young pups, elderly dogs, pooches with weakened immune systems, and severely untreated cases. Kennel cough usually lasts between one and two weeks. After the condition has passed, your dog will resume his normal level of activity and eating habits.

Causes and Symptoms

The following bacteria and viruses cause kennel cough:

• Bordetella Bronchiseptica – Recognized as the main cause of the condition, this kind of bacteria finds its way inside of a dog’s body by direct contact or is transmitted through the air. After the bacteria reproduce, your dog becomes sick and starts to show symptoms. An incessant cough is the result.

• Canine Parainfluenza-3 – As a primary virus associated with kennel cough, the epithelial cells of the respiratory tract of dogs is affected. Damage to the trachea may take place. If left untreated, your dog may develop another disease called tracheobronchitis. The Canine Parainfluenza-3 virus is the same virus that causes distemper in dogs.

• Canine Adenovirus Type 2 – The virus known to deeply penetrate the lungs of your pet is the same culprit behind the common cold in dogs and canine hepatitis. Luckily, this virus is less common.

Dogs suffering from kennel cough will exhibit a hacking cough (almost dry and vomit-like), phlegm, fever, lowered activity level, listlessness, and a gagging sound in the throat.

Kennel Cough Home Remedies

If you have more than one dog in your household, make sure to keep your companion with kennel cough in a separate room. This disease is extremely contagious and you don’t want to administer the following home remedies for kennel cough to more than one pet when you don’t have to:

a) Hydrogen Peroxide:

Sterilize water bowls using hydrogen peroxide. Next, apply three drops of 3% peroxide with two teaspoons of honey for every 8-ounce glass of water poured into the bowl for the dog to drink. Add the same amount of peroxide mixture to four ounces of water. Grab a dog toothbrush and gently brush their teeth. For some dogs, the coughing subsides. Brushing again helps control the cough when it arises once again.

b) Honey:

Tap into the antiseptic power of honey by giving your dog one teaspoon of honey three times per day. Make sure to use the ‘runny’ kind. You may also add raw honey to a warm cup of water. Entice your pooch to drink it, but if he or she refuses – use a medicine dropper to send the solution straight into their mouth. Administer a couple of drops every hour.

c) Peppermint:

Create a strong tea made out of peppermint leaves. You may also add honey. Using a medicine dropper, give your dog a couple of drops every hour until the coughing subsides.

d) Avoid Cough Suppressants:

It may be tempting to hush kennel cough with a cough suppressant, but this method actually increases the amount of phlegm produced. While strongly advised against, a mild pediatric cough medicine could be used if coughing becomes too heartbreaking and painful to bear.

e) Bring on the Heat:

Relief for dry kennel cough is found in humid environments. Situating a home humidifier or vaporizer close to your dog may help.

f) Lower Exercise Levels:

While your dog is battling kennel cough, it’s a good idea to reduce his or her level of exercise. Keep your pet inside to lower the risk of worsening their cough or spreading the condition to other dogs.

g) No Smoke:

When around your dog, shelter them from smoky environments, such as lit cigarettes.

h) Vitamin C:

Boost the immune system of your dog by adding a bit of vitamin C to their diet.

[1] http://www.marvistavet.net/html/body_kennel_cough.html

Causes and Symptoms

Cat constipation occurs when an abnormal buildup of feces takes place in the bowel. Since the bowel is responsible for absorbing water, stagnant feces can become hard and dry, making it difficult to pass. Foreign materials, tumors, scarred tissue, pelvic injuries, and damage to the nerves associated with the large bowel can all cause constipation in cats. Longhaired cats may suffer the condition because of hairballs.

Pain is a primary symptom of cat constipation, as felines strain and crouch down for extended periods of time in an attempt to eliminate their bowels. Other signs and symptoms of the condition include:

• Using the bathroom outside of the litter box
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Sluggishness and fatigue
• Vomiting
• Depression

Cat Constipation Home Remedies

Untreated cat constipation can lead to a chronic problem called megacolon, where the colon abnormally dilates and becomes too enlarged [1]. As a result, the colon loses its ability to contract, which can cause obstipation – a complete blockage. To avoid health complications in your pet, consider the following home remedies for cat constipation:

a) Pumpkin:

Restore regularity in your cat by feeding them a boost of fiber, which is found in the tasty treat of canned pumpkin. When cat constipation arises, add one to two tablespoons of pumpkin to their food.

b) Water:

Don’t be surprised if your cat doesn’t drink a lot of water, which is a natural habit of domesticated felines. To make matters worse, dry cat food is very low in moisture. If you add canned food to your cat’s diet, you can provide the hydration necessary to promote beneficial digestion.

c) Petroleum Jelly:

Use what most over-the-counter cat remedies use to treat a constipated feline – petroleum jelly. Feeding your cat ½ teaspoon of plain petroleum jelly per day can aid in unclogging his or her insides.

d) Oat Bran:

Add ½ teaspoon of oat bran or another high-fiber cereal to your cat’s food.

e) Trimmed Hair:

If you own a longhaired cat, make sure you keep the hairs surrounding their bottom well trimmed. Hair tangled close to the anus can cause constipation.

f) Clean Litter Box:

A clean litter box will encourage your cat to practice routine bathroom habits. Fussy cats often refuse to use a litter box that is not to their liking, which can lead to constipation.

g) Milk:

Under normal circumstances, milk causes pets to develop diarrhea, but if your cat is suffering constipation, it is suggested to give liquid dairy to your feline two times per day. Administer 1/8 cup of milk in the morning and in the evening. Discontinue its use once the problem is solved.

h) Broth:

Heat up a meat-based broth and add ½ teaspoon of a laxative containing psyllium. Not only will the added fiber get things moving, but the broth also assists in fighting dehydration.

Resources

[1] http://www.cat-world.com.au/ConstipationInCats.htm

What is Mange?

An infestation of parasites on the skin of Fido or Fifi is to blame for the condition of mange. A tiny parasite called a mite is responsible for literally feasting upon your pet, as the term comes from the word mangier, which translates into ‘to eat.’ Most commonly found in dogs and other canine species, mange can also occur in other domestic and wild animals, like cats [1].

When it comes to annoying pet pests, mites are sometimes compared to fleas. However, they are much different. A flea resides on the outer surface of your pet’s skin, where they bite and drink the blood of their victims. Mange mites actually dig into the skin and live beneath the surface, where they drink blood and in the process – cause nasty allergic reactions.

Mange comes in different forms with Demodectic mange (red mange) the most common condition seen in dogs and Notoedric mange most often attacking cats.

Symptoms of Mange

With excessive scratching, weight loss, dehydration, and a decreased desire to eat, animals also show the symptoms of mange on their face, ears, head, and neck. Brown marks appear on or around the nose. The ears sometimes become crusty with signs of discharge. Crusty patches emerge on the head and neck. The fur becomes thin in such a way that you can see the pink of their skin [2]. The animal’s coat often shows the signs of severe hair loss, often with small patches of baldness.

Mange Home Remedies

It’s important to know that most healthy dogs already have a small community of Demodex mites residing in their coat. However, if the mite population gets out of control, this is when the real trouble begins. In some cases, an allergic reaction can be found in only one part of the body, or the response gradually spreads across the rest of his or her coat. To prevent the spread of mange or treat a mangy pet, consider the following home remedies:

a) Hydrogen Peroxide and Borax:

One of the best home remedies for treating mange in dogs is to create a 1% hydrogen peroxide solution with water and Borax. Make sure that the mixture thoroughly dissolves. Once a week, wash your dog in a solution comprised of 1 to 2 tablespoons of borax for every 500 cc of 1% hydrogen peroxide. Refrain from wiping the dog dry. Simply allow the treatment to take effect. Do not exceed a treatment period of two months.

b) Brush Out the Fur:

Treat a mangy coat by brushing out the fur on a regular basis, which helps remove scaly skin and scabs.

c) Yogurt:

Choose a plain yogurt that contains acidophilus to heal the inside of ears that has been plagued with mange. Two tablespoons should do the trick.

d) Apple Cider Vinegar:

Add one tablespoon of unpasteurized apple cider vinegar to your pet’s meal to treat mange symptoms.

e) Cooking Oil:

Apply a couple drops of cooking oil directly to mangy skin patches to combat the irritation caused by mites. Cooking oil can also soften the waxy deposits that appear on the surface of your dog’s skin, which have been left behind by mites. The oil will also kill mites at the same time.

f) Lemon:

Slice one lemon with the peel still left on. Boil water in the same manner as you would if you were preparing a cup of tea. Drop the lemon slices into the water and allow to steep overnight. In the morning, apply the mixture to your pet’s coat using a sponge.

g) Soapy Water:

Apply a couple of drops of warm water with soap to eliminate mites found on the skin of your dog. This approach can also help stop the spread of mange to other body parts.

h) Routine Bathing:

Heal scaly skin and scabs by giving your pet a regular bath.

i) Treat Bedding:

If your pet is under attack by mange mites, it is important to thoroughly wash his or her bedding, and treat other places where they sleep.

j) Honey:

Apply local (and not store-brand) honey to reddened skin.

Resources

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mange
[2] http://mangecure.info/Mange/mansym_MangeSymptoms.html

What is a Yeast Infection?

The most common form of yeast infection attacks the vaginal region when an increased amount of yeast accumulates and causes an imbalance in the body’s normal levels of bacteria. Symptoms include:

Intense itching and burning sensations in the vagina and vulva
An offensive odor that resemble beer or bread [1]
Painful urination
Pain during sexual intercourse
White, yellow, or clear vaginal discharge
Discharge similar to cottage cheese

While the symptoms of yeast infection are pretty annoying, uncomfortable, and sometimes embarrassing to face, it is important to keep in mind that the condition is not a sexually transmitted infection (also known as an STD) [2].

Yeast Infection Home Remedies

One of the most common treatments for yeast infection is to embrace the power of over-the-counter medications, such as Monistat 7 and Gyne-Lotrimin. However, some people desire a quick solution to the irritating symptoms accompanying yeast infection and decide to turn towards home remedies for relief, including the following:

a) Cold Compress:

Apply a cold compress (like a washcloth) to the vaginal region to soothe the irritation of yeast infection.

b) Tea Tree Oil:

To reduce pain and inflammation, tea tree oil has been used to treat yeast infection. Soak a cotton ball in the oil and directly apply to the vagina.

c) Olive Oil:

Use olive oil as an oral yeast infection remedy by mixing three to four drops with the same amount of grapefruit juice and two cups of water. Drink the concoction for relief.

d) No Perfumes:

Keep pain and infection away by eliminating sanitary products that use deodorants, perfumes, and fragrances.

e) Vinegar:

Keep a yeast infection from reappearing by using a diluted solution of vinegar and water (for no more than once a week) to flush out the vagina. The mixture creates a more acidic environment in the vagina, which helps to ward off yeast. Simply mix two tablespoons of white vinegar with one quart of water. A standard douching bulb found at the local pharmacy will help administer this home remedy. Additionally, beware of commercial douches, which have a reputation for killing the “good kind” of bacteria found in the vagina.

f) Yogurt:

Apply plain, unsweetened yogurt to the opening of your vagina before going to bed in an attempt to promote a beneficial level of “good” bacteria. Make sure that the yogurt you choose contains live cultures. If you seem to be a victim of recurring yeast infections, try adding more yogurt to your diet. Studies have shown that women who eat yogurt every day suffer fewer attacks.

g) Beta-Carotene:

Consume foods that offer a high level of beta-carotene, such as sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli, apricots, and carrots.

h) Cotton Clothing:

Since yeast infections thrive in moist, warm environments, it is recommended to wear clothing that keeps your vaginal region cool, dry, and comfortable. Opt for cotton underwear and loose-fitting garments.

i) Cornstarch:

Decrease the amount of moisture in the groin region by sprinkling a bit of cornstarch to promote absorption.

j) Apple Cider Vinegar Extract:

For quick relief from itchiness and burning sensations, mix apple cider vinegar extract with a small amount of water and garlic extract. Apply to the vagina using a cotton ball.

k) Buttermilk:

If you drink two to three glasses of buttermilk on a daily basis, it will help regulate bowel movements, cool off the body, regulate body temperature, and flush out toxic materials. In the end, inflammation in the vagina region will subside.

Resources

[1] https://www.msu.edu/~eisthen/yeast/symptom.html

[2] http://www.medicinenet.com/yeast_vaginitis/page2.htm#toce

What are Cat Fleas?

The cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) primarily attacks the domesticated cat, but also causes trouble for dogs, humans, rabbits, rodents, and other animals [1]. Once a female flea comes in contact with a cat, she lays her eggs, which become dry and later fall to a more protected shelter on the host. As the eggs hatch into larvae, the immature fleas feed on the organic substances they find on the cat, including adult flea waste and dried blood.

Next, a process of metamorphosis takes place, where the larvae then spin a cocoon and enter what is called the “pupal stage.” This process varies, as a young adult flea only emerges when signs of a viable host are present, such as warmth, movement, and carbon dioxide production [2]. After a newly emerged flea breaths its first swallow of fresh air, it is motivated to jump about its host, where it takes minutes for the new flea to feed on blood.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

When a cat suffers a flea infestation, you will notice scratching and a noticeable discomfort on their part. A sure sign of cat fleas is seen when your cat walks away from the places they sleep or rest and small grains resembling “salt and pepper” are left behind. This is an indication that fleas are reproducing on your pet, as these remnants are actually flea eggs and droppings. While most cats live life as usual with a few fleas, untreated infestations may cause a variety of problems.

While cat fleas do not typically find a home on humans, they still bite cat owners who have a habit of picking up and stroking their cats. Human cat flea bites produce small, red, itchy bumps that often plague the ankles and lower legs. If a person suffers an allergy to flea bites, they experiences extreme rashes, hives, or generalized itching [3]. Usually, an allergic reaction to flea bites appears 12 to 24 hours after a bite and may last more than a week.

Risk Factors and Negative Effects of Cat Fleas

Cats face the higher risk of fleas when felines are placed in environments that promote the growth and spread of these common household pests. When left untreated, cat fleas have the ability to pose medical concerns and affect the humans living within the same space. Below you will find a wide-range of risk factors and negative effects associated with cat fleas:

a) Heavy Infestations:

The repeated bloodsucking that accompanies heavy infestations of fleas can cause iron deficiencies and anemia in cats. This is especially seen in young felines, which eventually leads to the death of some pets. Heavy infestations also mean that the fleas have spread to other parts of a household, often biting human occupants.

b) Disease:

Cat fleas are known to transmit other parasites to their host, including cats, dogs, and humans. Common diseases include Bartonalla, tapeworm, and murine typhus.

c) Hair Loss:

When a cat frequently scratches and licks at their flea bites, their hair may fall out.

d) Flea Allergy Dermatitis:

Cat fleas are responsible for causing flea allergy dermatitis (also known as FAD) in both cats and dogs. This type of allergy is believed responsible for more than 50% of all the dermatological cases reported to veterinarians.

e) Stray Cats:

When a stray cat has kittens under or close to an uninfested home, the chances of suffering a flea infestation becomes much greater. Cats who live in a heavily flea infested home will also sometimes escape their surroundings to seek relief, usually bringing an infestation to an uninfested residence when rescued as a stray.

f) Weather:

In the outdoors, cat fleas thrive when the weather is humid and rainy, which causes the southern parts of the United States to suffer flea infestations more than the north. The summertime also sees a high population of cat fleas.

g) Dormant Flea Cocoons:

Houses or apartments that have been unoccupied for a long time may suffer a flea infestation when new tenants or homeowners move inside and “awaken” dormant flea cocoons.

h) Frequent Outdoor Visits:

A cat that frequents the outdoors will heighten the risk of bringing fleas into their home environment.

Home Remedies for Cat Fleas

When it comes to using home remedies to treat cat flea problems, you should know that the fleas present on your feline only represent a minute piece of the entire flea population within your home. This is why it is important to follow home remedies associated with both your pet and household. Popular cat flea home remedies include:

a) All-Natural Flea Collar Vacuuming:

A regular vacuuming of carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding helps remedy flea infestations and aids in removing flea cocoons. Since vibrations trigger the emergence of new adult fleas, you may use the clipped ends of an all-natural flea collar as a deterrent. Simply place the flea collar clippings inside of your vacuum bag, which will destroy new fleas on the spot. It is important to use all-natural flea collars, as toxic fumes may arise when using other selections.

b) Yard Cleanup:

Since fleas thrive in moist, wet environments, you may treat the exterior of your house to lower the flea population outside of your home. To create a drier yard, you should cut the grass, trim shrubs, and avoid leaving piles of gravel and sand about the house for long periods of time. Additionally, remove any unnecessary organic debris, including leaves, grass clippings, and straw, which easily becomes a haven for fleas.

c) Promote Spider and Ant Populations:

Ants and spiders serve as great enemies to the flea by eating their eggs and larvae. When mowing your lawn too short, you help fleas to thrive within the outdoors. Lawns kept shorter than two inches encourages a lowering of the population of ants and spiders in a yard, who become susceptible to ground-feeding birds.

d) Birds [4]:

While ants and spiders put a dent in the flea population, so do birds, such as songbirds, sparrows, and starlings. If you encourage birds to settle in or close to your yard, you will also help lessen the fleas outside of your home because birds consider them a fine source of food. You should offer seeds, water, and shelter throughout the year to promote birds frequenting your yard.

e) Vinegar and Water:

In a spray bottle, place equal parts of white vinegar and water, which is then used to mist flea-infected bedding, pets, and carpets.

f) Cedar Shavings:

The local home improvement, home and garden, or feed shop can provide homeowners with cedar shavings, which makes an effective remedy for cat fleas. It is suggested to sprinkle the shavings about the house, in the garden, and inside flowerbeds. You may also fill a pillowcase with cedar shavings and sew it shut for your cat to lie on.

g) Hydrogen Peroxide:

Some individuals have found results when placing their cat in a tub and administering hydrogen peroxide to their coats. It is important to avoid getting the liquid in their eyes, nose, or mouth. In the end, you should see fleas dropping into the water. This home remedy should be avoided if you are worried about lightening the coat of your cat, which may last for a couple of weeks.

h) Borax:

Applying borax to cat bedding and surrounding floor spaces, carpeting, rugs, and furniture is known as an effective home remedy for fleas [5].

i) Routine Pet Bedding Washing [6]:

It is suggested to wash your pet’s bedding and treat surrounding areas with a product that prevents the growth of fleas. This especially comes in handy when your cat frequents the outdoors. As a rule of thumb, regular checks and cleaning of the basement, garage, car, and pet carrier is needed to remedy any possible flea infestations.

j) Flea Combs and Detergent Water:

When it comes time to remove fleas, many cat owners underestimate the power of a good flea comb, which provides a great non-toxic method of ridding your pet of cumbersome cat fleas. The proper way to use the tool is to comb your pet and then place dislodged fleas into a bowl of water filled with detergent, which kills the pests. Be sure to set aside a chunk of time to complete this home remedy. Effective combs should provide 32 teeth per inch.

k) Summer Maintenance:

Since fleas tend to thrive under warm conditions, it is suggested to wash pet bedding in hot, soapy water once per week, followed by a session in a hot dryer. You should always keep in mind that 90% of fleas in a household congregate where your pet sleeps. Rugs and carpeting should be vacuumed every two to three days.

l) Soap Detergent, Water and Light:

Place a pan filled with water and a few drops of dish soap in the center of a room infested with cat fleas. Next to the pan, situate a bright light onto the water as the only source of light in the room. The cat fleas are attracted to the light, causing them to jump into the water and drown because of the added dish soap. Without the dish detergent, the fleas will simply bounce back out.

Resources

What are Dog Fleas?

In the world of pesky household pests, the dog and cat flea are so alike in appearance and biology that they are often described as the same entity, but are still different in many ways. The dog flea (Ctenocephalides canis) along with the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) is a common species of flea found both inside and outside of the home. A full-grown flea is light to deep brown in color and measures about two to eight millimeters long [1]. They do not possess wings, but their large hind legs give them the ability to cover long distances in one jump

Dog fleas start out as larvae, which are about twice as long as full-grown fleas. When an infestation takes place, the fleas feed on microscopic organic substances, dry blood, and excrement that accumulate in the nooks and crannies of an affected site. If a dog suffers a heavy infestation, their bedding may display what is described as a “salt and pepper” appearance, which is actually comprised of the grayish-colored larvae and white flea eggs.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Individual dogs and certain breeds produce varying responses to fleas. Normally, only minor skin irritation takes place even when the presence of dozens of fleas bite in one region. However, if a dog is allergic to fleas, then the outcome is much more serious, including severe spells of itching. When a flea bites a dog, saliva makes contact with the skin, causing the source of allergic reactions.

Overall, when fleas strike your pooch, they often respond by chewing, licking, or scratching. Untreated cases often result in a wide-range of complications. This includes the rapid spread of dog fleas that eventually affect the rest of the household. Humans who are bitten by fleas usually suffer a rash characterized by small bumps that itch and sometimes bleed [2]. Severe itching may follow, which heavily affects people with sensitive skin; and children, who often suffer allergic reactions [3].

Risk Factors and Negative Effects of Dog Fleas

When it comes to dog fleas, there are a handful of risk factors and negative effects associated with an unfortunate infestation. Below you will find some of the elements that add to the negative effects of fleas:

a) Allergic Reactions:

Dogs born with or who develop an allergy to fleas will undergo harsher reactions to flea bites. It is the saliva of the flea that causes severe itching to take place.

b) Immune System:

Puppies and dogs with compromised immune systems may not have the ability to fight off negative reactions caused by a loss in blood caused by high flea infestation.

c) Small Dogs:

Smaller dog breeds, such as the Toy Poodle and the Miniature Yorkshire Terrier are often susceptible to the loss of blood that comes with an untreated flea infestation. They may also face the risk of anemia.

d) Hair Loss:

The natural chewing, scratching, and licking a dog exhibits when trying to deal with flea bites may lead to hair loss over long periods of time.

e) Open Sores:

When a dog constantly chews or scratches at flea bites, an open sore may develop, which only worsens as a dog licks the wound.

f) Bacterial Infections:

A secondary bacterial infection develops when open sores are left untreated and a dog continuously chews, scratches, and licks infected areas.

g) Household Infestation:

When a heavy flea infestation develops, an entire household faces the wrath of spreading fleas that attach themselves to carpets, rugs, and other objects in a house. When household infestations become persistent, a homeowner may call upon the help of a professional in pest control.

h) Climate:

Locations about the world where the climate is wet, warm, and humid tend to accommodate higher flea populations. This is why states in the southern part of the U.S. are more susceptible than northern regions.

i) Use of Insecticides:

Some homeowners must choose the lesser of two evils when it comes to household pests. Since spiders and ants prey upon the larvae and eggs of fleas, the use of insecticides destroys the population of advantageous, flea-fighting insects who threaten the number of fleas inside and outside of the home.

j) Spread of Disease:

Fleas are known to carry awful diseases and infect their victims with various bacteria, plagues, and tapeworms [4].

Home Remedies for Dog Fleas

The number one objective of a dog owner with a flea-infested pet is to remove the pests out of their companion’s life, as well as out of their home. While many individuals race to the supermarket for the latest commercial remedy on the market, there are a few home options for dog fleas to consider, including:

a) Soap Detergent and Water:

Fill a pan with water and place a little bit of dish detergent and leave the pan in the middle of a flea-infested room with a lamp shining brightly on the setup throughout the night. This should be the only light source in the room, as fleas are attracted to the brightness. The unsuspecting pests will leap into the water and drown, as the dish soap prevents their escape.

b) Effective Outdoor Care:

To minimize the number of fleas able to enter your household, you can follow a few basic yard cleanup techniques. This includes properly mowing the lawn, trimming bushes and tall plants, as well as removing sand and gravel accumulations.

c) Reconsider Insecticides:

Some homeowners refrain from the use of insecticides because they reduce the population of ants and spiders, which naturally control the number of flea eggs and mature adult fleas in your yard [5].

d) Avon Skin-So-Soft [6]:

University of Florida research has revealed promising results for effective flea care when flea-ridden pooches received a sponge application utilizing a solution consisting of 1.5 ounces of Skin-So-Soft to one gallon of water. The next day, flea counts dropped by 40%. The woody fragrance of the Avon product is believed to offend the fleas’ sharp sense of smell.

e) Dryer Sheets:

Some dog owners have used dryer sheets as a daily home remedy against dog fleas. If your canine has sensitive skin, then this method is not suggested.

f) Vinegar:

Mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water makes an effective dog flea spray bottle treatment, which is satisfyingly cost-efficient.

g) Cedar Pillows:

At the pet supply store, cedar-filled pillows are sold as a flea deterrent, but you can also make your own at home. Take an old pillowcase and fill it with cedar shavings, followed by a good stitching.

h) Daily Grooming:

Controlling fleas at home begin with proper grooming techniques and habits. Every dog owner should own a fine-toothed flea comb. Be prepared to spend more time on long-haired pooches over dogs with short coats.

Resources

What is Diaper Rash?

Various skin disorders and/or irritants are responsible for causing the skin rashes in the diaper region of children known as “diaper rash” [1]. As the condition worsens, a child faces diaper dermatitis accompanied by a secondary bacteria or fungus that begins to attack the folds of the skin. A parent becomes aware of diaper rash when redness and puffiness is found about the thighs, buttocks, and genitals of their offspring. Sometimes, the skin is slightly warmer than the rest of the body. Overall, a baby becomes uncomfortable – often crying and fussing when it comes time to change their diaper.

Most infants are affected by diaper rash at some point in their lives. It is also not uncommon to see infants come home from the hospital with a slight rash decorating their thighs and buttocks. Typically, children develop diaper rash during the first 15 months of their lives, especially when they are between the ages of 8 and 10 months of age. While the condition may look alarming to parents and children face great discomfort, most cases of diaper rash are treated within a few days. Home remedies are quite effective.

Causes of Diaper Rash

When it comes to preventing and treating diaper rash, it is suggested to learn why the condition takes place in the first place. In regards to the redness, itchiness, and soreness a child may encounter, a number of causes include:

a) New Products:

When a baby is exposed to new products that irritate the skin, diaper rash may follow. Often, a new brand of disposable wipes, disposable diapers, fabric softeners, and other harsh detergents may cause a poor reaction [2]. Baby lotions, oils, and powders may also cause a delicate bottom to redden and become irritated.

b) Bacterial or Yeast Infections:

Bacteria or fungus is known to attack the creases of baby’s skin – making the buttocks and thighs a prime target for diaper rash. The warmth and moistness of this region serves as the perfect conditions for bacteria and yeast to survive.

c) Food:

The introduction of new food to a baby’s diet affects the chances of suffering from diaper rash. This is when the contents of stool changes and babies begin to experience more bowel movements. The overall transition usually takes place when the child is between four and 12 months of age.

d) Breastfeeding:

Some babies will develop diaper rash when their breastfeeding mothers consume a food that causes changes in their diet, such as a meal containing tomatoes.

e) Skin Irritation:

When a baby’s sensitive skin is exposed to urine and feces for a prolonged amount of time, the risk of developing diaper rash greatly increases. A child that produces a high amount of bowel movements are also more susceptible to the condition, as feces causes more irritation than urine to the skin.

f) Skin Sensitivity:

A higher risk of diaper rash is seen in babies who already suffer from skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis or eczema.

g) Rubbing or Chafing:

Skin rashes often develop when the rubbing and chafing of skin takes place in a child wearing tightfitting diapers or clothing.

h) Medication:

A baby is sometimes given antibiotics or receives them through the milk of a breastfeeding mother. While antibiotics are known to kill harmful bacteria, they also destroy the good kind as well. When a child possesses the improper balance of bacteria – yeast infections and diaper rash may occur.

Complications of Diaper Rash

The average diaper rash is easily treatable and often improves within a couple of days after beginning a home remedy. If the rash does not improve with home treatment or over-the-counter ointments, setting an appointment with a physician is highly suggested. An examination is required when a baby displays a fever, blisters, pus, weeping discharge, boils, unresponsive rashes to treatment, as well as rashes that spread to other parts of the body.

Home Remedies for Diaper Rash

When it comes to treating a diaper rash, parents face a wealth of home treatments that utilize many common items found within the household. To discover a whole new world of home remedies for diaper rashes, consider the following approaches:

a) Corn Starch:

An effective cure for diaper rash is seen in sprinkling the affected area with cornstarch, which promotes healing and soothes dry skin.

b) Baking Soda:

By adding a cup of baking soda to a baby’s bath water, you can soothe the discomfort associated with diaper rash.

c) Common Household Items [3]:

Most diaper rashes will disappear within two days when babies are bathed in warm water with the presence of Palmolive Dishwashing Liquid, which is known to help clear up rashes. Spraying diaper rash with cooking spray (such as Pam) contains just the right amount of oils to speed the healing process, as well as moisturize the skin. If you happen to have a little Phillips’ Milk of Magnesia in the house, apply a soaked cotton ball or sponge directly on a diaper rash. The antacid in the product actually neutralizes the acids that add to skin irritation.

d) Tea Bags:

Some parents have used the same ingredients found in ancient Chinese medicine when turning towards tea bags to treat diaper rash. By placing plain tea bags in a diaper, urination releases the healing properties of the tea, which helps ease symptoms within 24 hours. When using this home remedy, don’t be alarmed if the baby’s bottom is “stained” for a couple of days.

e) Boiled Lettuce:

Take a few washed dark green lettuce leaves and place them in a pot of water with enough water to cover the leaves. Let the leaves boil for five minutes, which are then later strained. Next, you should pour the water into a sterilized container. Before applying the concoction on a diaper rash, allow the mixture to cool after each diaper change. The next day should bring effective signs of healing.

f) Egg Whites [4]:

Crack three or four eggs in a manner that discards the yolk. Pour the egg whites over a freshly cleaned and dry rash, followed by putting on a clean diaper. The next time you change the diaper, the rash should look much better.

g) Oatmeal:

The next time you run bath water for your baby with a diaper rash, try placing some oatmeal in the water. When the baby is enjoying his or her bath, continue to “swish” the water about the bathing tub for 15 minutes to soothe and treat the condition.

Resources

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diaper_rash
[2] http://www.clevelandclinic.org/
[3] Joey Green’s Amazing Kitchen Cures by Joey Green (pg 105)
[4] http://www.otan.dni.us/webfarm/emailproject/diaper.htm