Diatomaceus Earth (DE) for Flea Control: How DE works to control fleas and other pests in the house, yard, and on your dog

WHAT IS IT?

DE is a fine, flour-like substance, the microscopic remains of fossilized diatoms, a type of algae. Diatoms are found in fresh and salt water. Diatom cell walls are made of silica, a component of glass. DE has been used for years as a natural insecticide to control fleas, mites, ticks, and most types of flying or crawling pests.

Diatomaceous Earth under a microscope

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Flea and other insects have exoskeletons and are susceptible to the glass-sharp edges of the microscopic diatoms. The shards cut through the exoskeleton surface and result in the death of insects and their larvae.

PROS AND CONS

Pros: DE is non-toxic to humans and animals and is used in some foods. (It’s important to get the human grade DE to be sure you are treating with the correct use/type of DE). DE is found in pool filters, supplements, beauty and skin care products and even cake flour (to control weevils)

DE is safe to use on bedding, carpets, and yards. It can even be administered directly onto the coat (allow your dog to take a nice shake to sift it into the coat!) and even on food for internal parasites (remember, food/human grade only for this!)

DE is also a mechanical killer versus a chemical killer (like monthly spot-on flea control) so resistance to DE is not an issue.

Cons: DE is very fine and silky. So it can be messy. Apply outdoors or in a garage if possible. Do not breathe it directly. It may make you cough or sneeze! (cover dog’s eyes nose and mouth while applying—a damp towel works great) If dogs ingest it, it is absolutely safe. DE must be dry to work. The worst they could do is let out a loud sneeze.

DE is safe and effective as an add-on to an existing flea/tick control plan or can be a standalone insect fighter.