Using Diatomaceous Earth for Rabbits, Safe?

Diatomaceous earth is an amazing product with a multitude of uses, but most importantly it’s excellent at killing insects and fleas. But, Can you use diatomaceous earth on rabbits for fleas? Is diatomaceous earth safe for rabbits? The answer is yes! But there are some things you should be aware of before you go ahead and use it on your rabbit.

First, What is Diatomaceous earth, and how does it kill fleas?

Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring sedimentary rock that is composed of the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of algae.

The flea killing power comes from the sharp edges of the diatom fossils that cut through the exoskeletons of fleas, causing them to dehydrate and die.

Unlike chemical pesticides, diatomaceous earth is non-toxic and poses no risk to pets or humans. When used correctly, it is an effective way to control flea populations without resorting to harmful chemicals.

It’s even safe to ingest, which is why it’s sometimes used as an anti-caking agent in food.

But what does diatomaceous earth do to a sensitive rabbit’s skin?

So if the diatomaceous earth is so sharp it can slice through a flea’s exoskeleton, surely it would damage a rabbit’s sensitive skin?

Will diatomaceous earth hurt animals?

No! That’s the best part about using diatomaceous earth, it’s completely safe for animals.

Fleas and other insects have a waxy exoskeleton that’s very thin and delicate compared to the thin skin of a rabbit.

This means that when diatomaceous earth comes into contact with a flea, the sharp edges of the Fossilized diatoms slice through the exoskeleton and cause the flea to dehydrate and die.

But because rabbits have much thicker skin by comparison, and are much larger, the diatomaceous earth simply doesn’t have the same effect. It’s too small to do any damage at all.

In fact, it’s not even noticeable to a rabbit when you put it on them. All they’ll feel is the same as if you were to sprinkle any other powder on them.

So, is diatomaceous earth safe to put on rabbits? Yes!

Yes, it’s safe to use around rabbits! Diatomaceous earth can help to control fleas, mites, and other pests that can bother rabbits.

Just be sure to avoid inhaling the dust, as this can irritate the lungs. Also, be sure to use food-grade diatomaceous earth, as some types may contain harmful chemicals.

Avoid putting it around the eyes and nose area, although you need to get as high up into the head as possible as carefully as you can.

Finally, avoid using diatomaceous earth on open wounds, as it can cause irritation. But if used properly, diatomaceous earth can be a helpful tool in keeping your rabbit healthy and pest-free.

How much diatomaceous earth do I give my rabbit?

This all sounds great, but how do you use diatomaceous earth for fleas on rabbits? It’s easy to use. Simply grab 1 teaspoon of diatomaceous and rub it into your rabbit’s fur.

Do this every 2 days until the infestation has been curbed.

This is best done while your bunny is dry and you should avoid giving your rabbit any baths while treatment is ongoing.

Also, consider sprinkling it on their bedding and in their cage as an added measure and double whammy to help keep fleas away.

Does diatomaceous earth kill fur mites?

It’s highly effective against all sorts of pests, including fur mites, lice, ticks, fleas, bedbugs, and any other insect that rely on a waxy exoskeleton.

Warnings and things to avoid when using diatomaceous earth

It’s messy

It’s powder and it gets everywhere. Your rabbit will probably shake it out of their fur and onto the floor, their bedding, and you. It’s best to do this outside if possible, or in a well-ventilated room.

It’s very dry and absorbs water from the air, which causes it to dry like concrete. So if you’re using it on the floor in the corners of the room or in the cage, You should change it regularly. Remember you don’t need a lot!

It’s hard on the lungs, Don’t let your rabbit breathe it in, and avoid breathing it in yourself as well.

Conclusion

Overall, diatomaceous earth is a safe and effective way to get rid of fleas on rabbits. Just be sure to use it correctly and take into account any warnings or things to avoid.

If you’re not comfortable using diatomaceous earth, there are other alternatives that can help control fleas on your rabbit.

Alternatives to diatomaceous earth you can use on your bunny

Warning: Never use Frontline® or Sentinel® on a rabbit. Adverse reactions will happen! Flea collars should also be avoided as they aren’t dossed for rabbits and rabbits tend to hurt themselves trying to remove them.

Advantage®, Revolution® Stronghold® are generally considered safe to use on rabbits but you should contact your vet to get proper dosing for your bunny’s weight.

Unfortunately, there aren’t a lot of options for dealing with fleas on rabbits except for DE and harsh chemicals. But the good old fashion flea comb is always a favorite and works a treat for smaller infestations.

Just dip the comb in lightly soapy water after every brush to kill eggs, fleas, pupae, etc.

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Why is diatomaceous earth not killing fleas?

Diatomaceous earth is often touted as a natural and effective way to kill fleas. However, diatomaceous earth only kills adult fleas and does not prevent flea reproduction.

This means that if you’re using diatomaceous earth to try to get rid of a flea infestation, you’ll only be successful in killing the adult fleas – not the eggs, larvae, or pupae.

In order to completely eliminate a flea infestation, you’ll need to use a product that targets all stages of the flea life cycle.

Products that contain methoprene or pyriproxyfen are typically most effective at preventing flea reproduction and breaking the life cycle.

If you’re dealing with a severe flea infestation, you may also need to consult a professional pest control company.

DE is only really useful to help control a flea population and get them off your pet.

Can you mix diatomaceous earth with water and spray it?

This works for getting DE to stick to various surfaces, but you shouldn’t use this method on your pet.

Diatomaceous earth is a desiccant, meaning it absorbs moisture. When DE absorbs moisture, it turns into a hard, crumbly substance that can be very irritating to the skin and lungs.

If you mix diatomaceous earth with water and spray it on your pet, you run the risk of causing irritation and embedding itself into the fur like concrete.

DE also doesn’t work to kill insects when it’s wet, but once it dries out it becomes effective once more.

How long does it take for diatomaceous earth to kill fleas?

The timer on the flea’s life starts as soon as it touches DE and receives tiny cuts in its exoskeleton. Given the size of a flea, it only takes 4 hours for them to dehydrate to the point of death after first contact.

You should keep the treatment going for 1 to 2 weeks to make sure you’re getting all the fleas in different stages of their life cycles.