Home Remedies for Flea & Tick Treatments

Being a pet owner brings many rewards. Unfortunately, it may also bring bugs. Household pets like dogs and cats, are prime targets for fleas and ticks. These small pests can pass on worms and diseases, and many animals are allergic to their bites. Thankfully, you can use many home remedies to ward off fleas and ticks from your pet and your home. Using natural home remedies allows you to protect your animal without exposing it to harmful chemicals.

  1. Plants for Protection

    • A variety of common plants are known to ward off fleas. Marigolds are inexpensive and available in most areas. Plant them around your yard to deter fleas. Lavender and mint can also be used for flea prevention. They may be planted in your garden or steeped in boiling water to make a spray. Eucalyptus is known for discouraging fleas and ticks, but is toxic to animals. Pet owners are advised to choose another plant for pest control.

    Warding Off Ticks

    • Applying vinegar to your cat's coat can help prevent fleas and ticks.

      Ticks are parasites that attach themselves to animals and humans. These bugs feed off of blood and may transmit Lyme Disease or cause infection. Vinegar is a popular home remedy for preventing tick bites. Apply vinegar directly to your pet's coat before allowing it to go outside. Ticks do not like the smell and will be less likely to bite. Be sure to avoid your animal's eyes, ears and mouth when applying.

    Cedar's Many Uses

    • The smell of cedar repels fleas and ticks. You can use this remedy in several ways. Purchase a bag of cedar chips and spread them around your yard to keep pests away. You can also make a spray using pure cedar oil and distilled water. Spray the solution on your carpets and furniture. Other uses include adding a few drops of cedar oil to your pet's shampoo before bathing and spraying your clothes before going outside.

    Dust with Dirt

    • Diatomaceous earth (DE) is soil that contains sharp particles which puncture a flea's exoskeleton and kill it. You can find diatomaceous earth at local nurseries and feed stores. It is important to purchase "food grade" DE. (Other types of this soil may be dangerous to humans and animals.) To kill fleas and ticks, sprinkle the soil on your lawn and gardens. You can also add a small amount to your carpets. Leave the DE on for a few days before vacuuming.

    Fight With Fruit

    • Lemons can be used as a flea and tick deterrent.

      Citrus repels fleas and ticks. A common home remedy is to cut a lemon into slices, add the slices to two or three quarts of water and bring to a boil. Allow the mixture to sit for about a day. This citrus spray can be used on household items, pet bedding and clothes to keep critters on the run. This remedy does double-duty as an air freshener as well.