Fleas and ticks are pesky pests. They take a free ride on our pets in the hottest months causing pain and irritation. There are many ways to get rid of fleas and ticks, but many times these ways are full of contaminants. We’ve got a few natural flea treatments and ways to prevent infestation without all the added chemicals:
1. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider is a natural win for many people. Applying it topically or giving it orally to pets, apple cider has flea prevention benefits. One way to do this is to mix up apple cider vinegar with water then spray it on your pet’s coat. Cats aren’t usually as thrilled about being sprayed as dogs so it might be best when dealing with cats to use a comb to apply the solution. You can also serve it to your pet by mixing a small amount of apple cider vinegar to their water.
2. Essential oils
Essential oils seem to have a use for everything these days. Natural flea prevention and tick removal is just another one of those uses. One essential oil that many have found beneficial to repel these pests is rose geranium oil. Many people apply it to their dog’s collar. Essential oils are not good to use on cats because are more prone to groom around the area and might ingest the oil.
3. Rosemary flea dip
Rosemary is often found in the yard right beside the culprit of your pest problem. You might find rosemary growing right next to the grass where fleas love to live. You can make a dip out of this to ward off fleas and ticks. You brew two cups of rosemary in boiling water, throw away any leftover leaves and add a gallon of warm water. You can then give your pet a “bath” in the concoction. As a bonus, your pet will smell great.
4. Nematodes
Many natural flea treatments include the use of nematodes. These little tiny parasites actually enjoy feeding on ticks and fleas. Tinier than a flea, you can buy nematodes at the local garden store. They’re easy to mix with water in a spray bottle then apply to the yard where fleas and ticks live.
5. Neem oil
Flea prevention can be accomplished through the use of neem oil. Neem oil is an insect repellent found naturally in trees native to Sri Lanka and Burma. This oil keeps away flying pests like mosquitoes and fleas. Neem oil may not be best for tick removal. All you need to do is mix this oil with your pet’s shampoo and dilute it with dishwashing liquid. Give them a quick bath and you’re good to go.