Whilst well written and positive, the article is over-enthusiastic. DE is not a wonder-exterminator and does have safety issues. Extolling its virtues without mentioning the possible issues is irresponsible.
A young flea placed in a jar with a sprinkling of DE took about 8 hours to die. The flea was noticeably writhing after about 1 hour, but was still jumping adequately to clear the mouth of the jar had the lid been missing and was physically able to escape the DE. Only in the latter stages of its long drawn-out demise was it not jumping. OK, it works, it kills them; but the question raised here is: if it takes 8 hours to kill a captive flea who is writhing around in the stuff, then how long will it take to kill a free flea who walks on some on the floor, on the dog, or wherever? I don't know, but I would guess that they would have plenty of time to do the business and lay eggs before kicking the bucket. Judging by the fleas who are exploring our DE-ed cat and appear completely healthy, this is accurate.
So then, what are you going to do to prevent the animal from spreading the eggs around? Follow it wherever it goes with a hoover?
DE will HELP minimise an infestation, but telling people that it is the absolute solution is little less propaganda than the big pharmaceutical companies telling you that unless you use poison, you will be swarmed by fleas. I completely advocate the natural methods of pest control, but please be more balanced and explain all the facts.
Also, if you are going to use DE directly on the animal, please be aware that it is dehydrating. That is, after all, the supposed reason it kills fleas - dehydrating them to death. We are advised to wear gloves when applying DE, there is a reason for this - to avoid dry skin on the hands. Imagine then the possible irritation on the animal's skin when it is applied and left on, over a long period of time (while you wait for DE to wipe out every last flea.) Wouldn't it be sore when the flea comb is passed through the fur? You might find that you have more problems than you bargained for if you end up with a pet skin-condition to deal with as well.
I am trying to avoid the use of poisons, but after 6 weeks of open warfare against a light infestation and new eggs appearing on the bedding every morning, I am starting to lose hope, and wondering whether this dose of DE & daily combing is really what the cat would choose if I could ask him.
