Alternative Ways to Get Rid of Fleas

Fleas multiply quickly and feed off blood, creating itchy, inflamed bite marks. There are a variety of flea medications for pets available by prescription and over-the-counter, but these can be costly, and are no more effective than a simple homemade treatment.

  1. Flea Repellents

    • Citrus is a natural flea repellent, as the strong citrus odor is unattractive to fleas. Dab a few drops of lemon oil onto your pet's collar, or make a citrus spray that can be applied the animal's coat. Keep citrus away from sensitive areas such as eyes, nose, mouth and genitals.

      Apple cider vinegar is another repellent. Add a spoonful of apple cider vinegar to your pet's water dish, or make a solution in a spray bottle of 1 cup water and 1 cup apple cider vinegar. Spray onto the pet's dry coat, staying away from sensitive areas.

    Flea Killers

    • Dish soap effectively kills fleas, as the sticky detergent smothers them. Place your pet in the bathtub and lather him with a mixture of half vinegar, half liquid dish soap. Thoroughly rinse. Again, it is important to keep this mixture away from the pet's sensitive areas. Repeat once per week for at least one month to kill all fleas and eggs that could potentially hatch during this time.

    Killing Fleas in the Home

    • Fleas can accumulate in the home as well, where they may attack not only pets, but family members. Borax kills fleas on the spot, and is available at grocery stores. Thoroughly vacuum the floor and furniture, then sprinkle floors with a light dusting of borax. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then vacuum once more to collect any borax residue and dead fleas.

      Dish detergent also can be used to eliminate fleas in the home. Sprinkle floors with a dusting of table salt, then place a few pans of water around the room. Use 3 cups water and 3 squirts of liquid dish soap in each container. Position a flashlight so that it shines into the water (or place each pan under a nightlight). The fleas are repelled by the salt and will look for a safe place to jump; they also are attracted to the heat and light emitted from the flashlight or nightlight. The detergent traps fleas inside the pan or container, smothering them.