If you’ve ever had the misfortune of having a flea join you in bed for a night, you’ll know how voracious these minute creatures are when feeding. We once lived in a very sandy area where fleas were rife and it was a constant battle to keep them off our dogs. The battle was largely a stalemate and the fleas ruled the garden while we held our own indoors. Our poor dogs bore the brunt of the constant assault waves of the nimble little insects.
Flea bites cause swollen, itchy welts which are extremely uncomfortable, and diseases can be transmitted to our cats and dogs through these. Some of the diseases and disorders transmitted through flea bites on cats and dogs in the UK are:
- Cat Scratch Disease (Bartonella henselae)
- Feline Infectious Anaemia (Haemoplasma spp.)
- Flea-Borne Spotted Fever (Rickettsia felis)
- Tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum)
- Flea Allergic Dermatitis (FAD)
- Anaemia
[Source: European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control ECDC]
While chemical flea treatments are widely available, pet owners are becoming increasingly aware of and concerned about the potential side effects of the toxins, from skin irritation to neurological issues.
Fortunately, nature provides a wealth of alternatives that are not only effective but also safer for pets, humans, and the environment. In this article, we explore home remedies for fleas on cats and dogs that work, how to use them effectively, and the best ways to keep your home flea-free without resorting to harsh chemicals and toxins.
Fleas can jump incredibly high: Up to 150 times their own height, allowing them to easily move between hosts and infest new areas.
Image by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay
Why Choose Natural Flea Remedies?
Commercial flea treatments - such as spot-on applications, flea collars, and oral medications - often contain pesticides like fipronil, imidacloprid, and permethrin. While these ingredients are effective at killing fleas, they can also pose risks to pets, especially those with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions. In a study by the University of Sussex, researchers screened over 100 bird nests for insecticides. They discovered fipronil in every nest examined, and imidacloprid, and permethrin in 92 of the nests. Fipronil and imidacloprid are banned for agricultural use in the UK, but are widely used in the pet sector to kill ticks and fleas. Sadly, birds use animal fur, including dog and cat hair, to line their nests and these insecticides are on the pet hair they use. Researchers found that higher amounts of these insecticides in the nests correlated with higher incidences of unhatched eggs and higher chick mortality rates. [Source: ScienceDirect]
Not only are these potent neurotoxins in bird nests, but they’re also the largest source of such contamination of our already polluted rivers according to researchers from the University of Sussex and Imperial College London. [Source: Imperial News]
Natural flea remedies provide a chemical-free way to combat infestations while being gentle on your pet and our fragile environment. They also reduce the risk of resistance, as fleas can develop immunity to synthetic pesticides over time.
Natural Flea Treatment Options
1. Diatomaceous Earth: A Natural Flea Killer
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a fine powder made from fossilised aquatic organisms. It works by dehydrating fleas and their larvae, effectively killing them without the use of toxins.
How to Use:
- Choose food-grade diatomaceous earth (never use industrial-grade DE, as it is harmful to pets and humans).
- Lightly sprinkle DE on pet bedding, carpets, and along baseboards where fleas hide.
- Leave it for 24–48 hours before vacuuming thoroughly.
- You can also dust a small amount onto your pet’s fur, avoiding the eyes and nose.
Pros:
✔ Non-toxic and safe for pets and humans
✔ Affordable and easy to use
✔ Effective against fleas in all life stages
Cons:
✘ Can be drying to pet skin if overused
✘ Needs frequent reapplication
Fleas thrive in a wide range of environments.
Image by Gordon Johnson from Pixabay
Fleas can cause severe skin irritation: Flea bites can cause intense itching and irritation, leading to excessive scratching, hair loss, and even secondary skin infections in cats and dogs.
2. Essential Oils: Natural Flea Repellents
Certain essential oils have been shown to repel fleas effectively. Some of the best essential oils for fleas include:
- Lavender – Soothes the skin while keeping fleas at bay
- Cedarwood – A natural flea and tick repellent
- Lemongrass – Contains citronella, which repels fleas
- Peppermint – A strong deterrent for fleas, but should be used with caution
How to Use:
- Always dilute essential oils before applying to your pet. A safe dilution is one drop of essential oil per 30ml of carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil).
- Add a few drops to a spray bottle with water and mist onto your pet’s coat (avoiding the face).
- Place a few drops on your pet’s collar or bedding.
Important Note: Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil, eucalyptus, and clove, can be toxic to pets.
Pros:
✔ Pleasant scent
✔ Acts as both a flea repellent and a natural deodoriser
✔ Can be used in homemade flea sprays
Cons:
✘ Can cause irritation if not properly diluted
✘ Not all essential oils are pet-safe
Cedarwood has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that may be beneficial for certain skin conditions in pets.
3. Cedar Oil: A DIY Flea Spray for Pets
Cedar oil is one of the safest and most effective natural flea repellents. It works by disrupting fleas’ pheromones and suffocating adult fleas.
How to Use:
- Spray diluted cedar oil on your pet’s coat, bedding, and furniture.
- Use a cedar-filled pet bed or cedar chips in areas where your pet sleeps.
Pros:
✔ Non-toxic and safe for all pets
✔ Kills fleas, larvae, and eggs
✔ Repels other pests like ticks and mosquitoes
Cons:
✘ Some pets may be sensitive to the strong scent
4. Herbal Remedies: Safe and Soothing Solutions
Herbs such as rosemary, peppermint, and thyme have natural flea-repelling properties.
How to Use:
- Make a herbal flea spray by steeping fresh rosemary and peppermint leaves in hot water. Once cooled, spray onto your pet’s fur.
- Sprinkle dried herbs in pet bedding or create an herbal flea collar by sewing dried herbs into a bandana.
Pros:
✔ Gentle on the skin
✔ Can be used regularly
✔ Fresh, pleasant scent
Cons:
✘ Requires frequent application
✘ Less potent than other methods
Brewer's Yeast and B-Vitamin Supplements Create a Natural Flea Deterrent
5. Brewer’s Yeast & B-Vitamins: Internal Flea Prevention
Fleas dislike the taste of pets who consume brewer’s yeast and B-vitamins, making these natural supplements a great internal flea deterrent.
How to Use:
- Add a teaspoon of brewer’s yeast to your pet’s food daily.
- Look for natural flea-prevention treats containing B-vitamins.
Pros:
✔ Strengthens the immune system
✔ Improves coat health
✔ Easy to add to meals
Cons:
✘ Takes time to show results
✘ Some pets may not like the taste
Keeping Your Home Flea-Free Naturally
Treating your pet is only part of the solution—fleas love to hide in carpets, furniture, and bedding. Here’s how to get rid of fleas naturally from your home:
✔ Vacuum Daily: This removes flea eggs and larvae. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately.
✔ Wash Pet Bedding Weekly: Hot water kills flea eggs and larvae.
✔ Use Salt & Baking Soda: Sprinkling these on carpets dehydrates fleas. Let sit overnight before vacuuming.
✔ Employ Natural Predators: Beneficial nematodes, tiny microscopic worms, can be added to your garden to feed on flea larvae.
I recall a wise old neighbour advising my Mother to put a couple of sheets of newspaper on the carpet in the lounge. Noticing my Mother’s expression, the old lady nodded and tapped her ear, “You’ll hear the flea and then you can catch it.” Being a kid, I couldn’t wait to try it out, plus, I had itchy bites all down my leg that had been driving me crazy the whole day. So after dinner, I eagerly unfolded two sheets of newspaper and laid them out on the carpet in front of the electric fire. Not five minutes later, we all heard the tap of something landing on the paper. Those were days when my eyesight was still sharp and in a heartbeat I spotted the flea and a moment later I had it in a pincer grip. They’re hardy little creatures too, and dispatching them is pretty gross, especially if they’ve been feeding. I recommend just flushing them, but whatever you do, don’t loosen your grip on them!
Choosing the Right Non-Toxic Flea Treatments for Pets
Not every pet reacts the same way to natural flea treatments, so a little trial and error may be necessary to find what works best. Combining multiple methods—such as using diatomaceous earth in the home, cedar oil on bedding, and brewer’s yeast in food—can provide comprehensive flea control.
Always consult with your vet before trying new treatments, especially for pets with allergies or health concerns. By opting for natural alternatives, you can protect your pet from fleas without exposing them to harsh chemicals—ensuring a happy, itch-free life!
What’s Your Go-To Natural Flea Remedy?
Have you tried any of these natural flea treatments? Do you have a favourite homemade flea remedy that works wonders for your pets? Share your experience in the comments below!
Related Reads:
- The Best Ways to Keep Your Pet Comfortable While You’re Away
- Choosing the Ideal House Sitter for Your Pets
- Unlock the Joy of Walks: Keeping Your Dog Happy and Active
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before making changes to your pet’s tick and flea treatment regimen.
Related Reads
The best ways to make sure your pet is well looked after if you are going away.
How to be sure you select the ideal House Sitter for your pets and home.
Author Bio
Glenn Bauer is a trusted professional specializing in pet and house sitting for rural homes and estates across the Cotswolds and South West and South England. With years of hands-on experience in managing properties and animals, he offers tailored care and solutions. His expertise is reflected in consistent 5-star client reviews. Read Glenn's journey to professional pet and house sitter Glenn and Mandy: The Journey behind A-Breed-Apart
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