3 Home Remedies for Flea Bites

If you have a dog or cat, and your pet spends any amount of time outside, chances are you've suffered the occasional flea bite.

Typically, a flea bites show up as a small, red, itchy bump on your skin, with a little dot or hole in the center of the bump, where the bite actually occurred. But those who are sensitive to flea bites can suffer a severe allergic reaction.

Having one or two flea bites can be annoying. But having so many flea bites that it looks like you've broken out in some kind of rash can be downright terrifying.

Fleas can carry some pretty nasty diseases. So, if you've been experiencing flea bites, you should take steps to rid your home and your pet of fleas. However, once the flea bites have occurred, here are some home remedies that will help you take care of them.

Don't Scratch Flea Bites

No matter how much a flea bite itches, don't scratch it. Scratching flea bites can cause bleeding, can prolong the amount of time it takes for the flea bites to heal, and can lead to infection. So resist the temptation to scratch.

Keep Flea Bites Clean

The moment you notice you have a flea bite, clean the area where the bite occurred. Simply washing the skin with soap and cold water should do the trick. And keep washing the area two or three times a day until the flea bite is gone. This will help ward of infection.

As an added precaution, after washing with soap and cold water, apply an antibiotic cream or ointment (like Neosporin) to the area.

Finally, try to avoid touching flea bites as much as possible.

Stop the Itching

If itching is a real problem for you, try applying calamine lotion to the flea bites. But, if you don't have access to calamine lotion, try this home remedy.

Pour some baking soda into a bowl. Add a few drops of water and stir until the mixture turns into a paste. Apply the paste to your skin, leaving it on for about 15 minutes. This should alleviate the itching.

When to See a Doctor

If you have a severe allergic reaction to flea bites, home remedies aren't going to be enough. You should see a doctor immediately.

You should also see a doctor if the flea bites don't seem to be improving after a few days of using home remedies.

The best home remedy for flea bites is to prevent them from occurring. But, once you have them, these home remedies will help you get rid of them fast.