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Guide to Flea and Tick Prevention and Treatment

  • Daniel Wagstaff
  • Jan 7
  • 6 min read

If you’re a pet owner, you’ve likely faced the relentless battle against fleas and ticks. These pesky parasites don’t just make our furry friends uncomfortable, they can lead to skin irritation, allergies, and even transmit dangerous diseases. While there are plenty of chemical solutions available, many of us pet parents are turning to natural remedies to keep their pets safe and their homes pest-free. Luckily, my own dog Roscoe has not suffered with fleas, but he does struggle with allergies and that is what led me down the path of natural foods and treatments whenever I can.


In this guide, we’ll explore effective natural ingredients to prevent and treat those pesky fleas and ticks that cause us and our pets so much stress! Whether you’re seeking a safe alternative to harsh chemicals or have just found fleas in your home and are looking for a quick solution from your pantry that might help, this guide should help.


💡ALWAYS TAKE CARE WHEN INTRODUCING SOMETHING NEW. START SMALL, START SAFE!



A dog scratching.
Itchy pooch


Table of Contents


The Problem with Fleas and Ticks


Fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance, they’re a threat to your pet’s health and comfort. Fleas can multiply rapidly, causing itching, skin infections, and even anemia in severe infestations. Ticks, on the other hand, carry diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Ehrlichiosis.


While chemical treatments are effective, they often come with risks like skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even long-term health effects from repeated exposure. This is why many pet owners are exploring natural alternatives that are safer for their pets and their homes.


Essential Oils: Nature’s Repellent


Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that can naturally repel fleas and ticks while providing soothing benefits for your pet’s skin.

• Lavender Oil: Its calming scent also acts as a natural insect deterrent, making it perfect for pets that are easily stressed.

• Lemongrass Oil: A citrusy, refreshing oil that fleas and ticks hate. Its smell creates a protective barrier when applied to your pet’s fur.

• Cedarwood Oil: Known for its woody aroma, cedarwood oil is highly effective at disrupting flea and tick pheromones, making it difficult for them to locate your pet.


How to Use: Mix 2–3 drops of essential oil with a tablespoon of a carrier oil like coconut oil or water. Apply sparingly to your pet’s collar, bedding, or dilute it further to use as a spray. Avoid applying concentrated essential oils directly to your pet’s skin.




leafy plant and essential oils bottles

Apple Cider Vinegar: A Versatile Ally


Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular natural remedy because of its versatility. It works by slightly altering your pet’s skin pH, making it less attractive to fleas and ticks.


How to Use:

• Create a simple spray by mixing equal parts ACV and water. Mist your pet’s coat lightly, avoiding the face and open wounds.

• For internal benefits, add a teaspoon of ACV to your dog’s water bowl to improve their overall skin health and make them less appealing to pests.


Coconut Oil: Soothe and Repel


Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer with antimicrobial and antifungal properties. The lauric acid in coconut oil helps repel fleas and ticks while soothing irritated skin.


How to Use: If using regular coconut oil, which is solid at room temperature, warm a teaspoon in your hands and massage it into your pet’s fur. If using fractionated coconut oil, this is liquid at room temperature and easier to apply.

Either of these will repel pests and it will leave their coat soft and shiny. Coconut oil is also safe if ingested, making it a worry-free option for curious pets.


Nikura Coconut Oil 500ml (Fractionated)


Coconut and wellness products.

Lemon Spray: A Simple DIY Solution


Lemon is a natural flea deterrent, thanks to its high citric acid content. The smell alone is enough to drive fleas away.


How to Use: Boil a sliced lemon in water, then let the mixture steep overnight. Strain it into a spray bottle and mist your pet’s coat, paying special attention to areas fleas tend to gather, like behind the ears and around the tail.


Neem Oil: An Ancient Remedy


Neem oil is an ancient solution known for its insect-repellent properties. It’s a natural pesticide that also promotes healthy skin and fur.


How to Use: Mix a few drops of neem oil with a carrier oil or water and apply directly to areas where ticks and fleas are commonly found. It can also be used as a spot treatment for tick removal.


Brewer’s Yeast: Prevention from the Inside Out


Take care with this ingredient. It came up in my research as an option to add to your pets diet but the side effects, although short term are not appealing. Brewer’s yeast is packed with B vitamins that can improve your pet’s skin health and make them less appealing to fleas. But is known to upset the stomach with side effects including gas, vomitting and diarrhoea. It is said that these effects where off once your pet gets used to it but this would not be my first choice.


How to Use: Add a small amount (consult your vet for the appropriate dosage) to your pet’s food. Over time, it can act as a preventative measure against fleas.


Rosemary: A Herbal Solution


Rosemary is not just a culinary herb—it’s also a natural flea repellent. It can be used in both topical and spray applications.


How to Use: Boil rosemary sprigs in water and let the liquid cool. Pour it over your pet as a final rinse after their bath. This will leave their coat fresh and less appealing to fleas.


For a more concentrated approach, rosemary essential oil is highly effective but must always be diluted properly before use.


How to Use: Combine 2-3 drops of rosemary essential oil with 1 cup of a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil, or mix it into 500ml (approximately 2 cups) of water for a spray application.


This dilution ensures it’s gentle on your pet’s skin while maintaining its repellent properties. Rosemary also has antimicrobial and antioxidant benefits, which can help soothe your pet’s skin and promote a healthy coat. Always perform a patch test when using rosemary essential oil to check for any sensitivity before broader application.



rosemary sprigs

Baking Soda and Salt: For Your Home


Your home is just as important to treat as your pet. So if you are looking to treat your fabrics instead of your pet then this could be an option for you. Baking soda and salt work together to dehydrate flea eggs and larvae in carpets and furniture.


How to Use: Mix equal parts baking soda and salt and sprinkle on carpets and upholstery. Leave the mixture for several hours (or overnight) before vacuuming thoroughly.


Recommended Bought Solutions


Natural remedies are excellent, but if you don't have them to hand sometimes you need a quick, ready-made solution. Here are a few highly recommended natural flea and tick prevention products:


Peanut and Pickle – Flea Defence Spray

 

Peanut and Pickle - Flea Defence Shampoo


Billy No Mates


We put this Billy No Mates product into Roscoe's food and as I said at the start of this blog, I don't recall ever seeing a flea on him! Now this could be down to the supplement or it could be some of the other external factors. We can never truely know but if your furry loved one suffers with fleas, it is well worth a go.


Tips for Safe Use of Natural Remedies


  • Dilution is Key: Always dilute essential oils and Apple Cider Vinegar before use.

  • Test First: Do a patch test to ensure your pet doesn’t have an adverse reaction.

  • Consult Your Vet: Before starting any new treatment, especially if your pet has allergies or existing health issues.

  • Know Your Pet: Cats are more sensitive to many natural remedies, so avoid using essential oils on them unless specifically advised by a vet.


Conclusion


Dealing with fleas and ticks can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can protect your pet and home naturally. Fleas and ticks don’t stand a chance when you’re armed with these natural remedies. Start with simple solutions like an ACV spray or coconut oil massage to see immediate results, then experiment with other options to find what works best for your pet.


Why Choose Natural Remedies?

Natural solutions are often safer for your pets, family, and the environment. They reduce exposure to harsh chemicals and can often be tailored to your specific needs. Plus, many natural options offer additional health benefits, like improving your pet’s coat or supporting their overall well-being.


Your pet deserves to live comfortably—free from fleas and ticks!


Other considerations could include:

  • Collars infused with essential oils

  • Natural shampoos with neem oil and aloe vera

  • Sprays with Apple Cider Vinegar and herbal blends


Amazon Links


Lavender Oil


Lemongrass Oil


Cedarwood Oil


Coconut Oil


Rosemary Oil



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