How to Get Rid of Fleas Naturally

Fleas are often an inevitable part of living with dogs and cats. Despite our best efforts, they seem to find their way into the home. But what are your options if you prefer not to use harsh chemicals to treat your home or your pet? Below or some natural ways to treat your pets for fleas, and some natural remedies for eradicating fleas from your home.

Natural Remedies for Fleas on Pets

Flea Comb

A flea comb has closely spaced teeth that can be used to pull fleas from your pet’s coat. This can be a tedious process but is generally an effective way to remove both fleas and flea eggs. Dip the comb in soapy water after each pass to kill anything that’s picked up.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar is a great natural remedy for lots of situations. Apple cider vinegar is slightly acidic, making it deadly for fleas. You can mix six cups of apple cider vinegar with four cups of water into a spray bottle, then spray this solution all over your dog’s coat (just make sure you avoid their eyes).

Lemon

Lemon is a natural flea repellent that can be applied to your dog’s coat to repel fleas. You can try dipping the flea comb into a solution of lemon and water and passing it through their coat to remove fleas. Another option is to soak a rag in lemon and water and run it over your dog’s coat.

How to Get Rid of Fleas in Your Home

Baking Soda and Salt

Baking soda and salt dehydrate fleas and flea eggs. Sprinkle the mixture around your home and leave for a day or two before vacuuming it up. Make sure to clean your vacuum afterward as salt can cause rust!

Sulfur

Powdered sulfur can be sprinkled in your backyard in areas where your pets like to lounge. The powder interferes with a flea’s energy production and eventually kills them. Sprinkling it around your yard will kill any fleas who come in contact with it. However, if dogs or cats ingest large amounts of sulfur it can be deadly, so take care not to use too much. Always consult a veterinarian before using sulfur for flea prevention.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous Earth is a talc-like powder made from silica. It can be sprinkled on carpets, furniture, and bedding around the home to kill fleas. The powder dries them out and can be vacuumed up after sitting out for a few hours. This natural remedy is a great solution for eradicating fleas from your home.

Citrus

Citrus peel contains an extract called linalool that can work to rid your house of fleas and flea eggs. Even lemon juice on its own can help. Try mixing lemon juice with water and using it in the home to repel fleas. It won’t kill them, but it works as a repellent as flea hate the smell of lemon.

If you have cats, remember that they also don’t like the smell of citrus! Try to use this remedy in areas of the home your cat doesn’t frequent. Also ensure that any citrus extracts you use are out of reach, as they can often cause bad reactions in cats.

Boric Acid

Boric acid is a white powder that can be purchased from your local pharmacy. Just like with the Diatomaceous Earth, you can sprinkle it on your carpet and then vacuum it up after a few hours. It kills fleas but is safe for dogs and cats. Note that this isn’t a great choice if you have a baby and that it may cause damage to your carpet over time.

It’s a good idea to talk to your veterinarian before using any natural flea remedies on your dog. Sometimes, a prescription flea medicine is a good route to take. There are many flea medicines that prevent other parasites like heartworms from infecting your dog. Dogs and cats might be good pest control, but they can’t prevent fleas from getting onto them and into your home. When ingested, fleas can lead to a host of other problems like heartworm, so it's important to consider the best possible way to prevent fleas. Here are five other ways to improve your dog’s health.