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Natural and safe flea repellants for pets

Flea repellants contain imidacloprid, fipronil, permethrin, methoprene, and pyriproxyfen. Chewable flea tablets according to PETA “has the potential for neurologic adverse events in dogs and cats including muscle tremors, ataxia, and seizures.” Powders, collars, and sprays, can cause damage to you or your children if they are exposed to it. The products are classified as pesticides. Even mild exposure to chemicals like organophosphates and carbamates found in these products can lead to learning disabilities in children.

To prevent pet poisoning and health complications both in pets and members of the family, you can turn to natural products that can help prevent flea infestation. Along with these products, a good diet, a clean environment, and regular grooming will ensure that pets and the house becomes flea-free.

Non-toxic and natural ingredients used as flea repellants

  • Low doses of black walnut are an effective way of repelling fleas. Caution has to be exercised as to not exceed the recommended dose as higher doses are toxic.
  • Flea treats are products made of liver and vitamin-B complex. These help the pets to become immune to flea infections.
  • Microorganisms that eat the flea larvae are called nematodes. There are sprays that use nematodes. It is non-toxic and safe for animals and humans. This is normally sprayed on lawns to repel fleas. These products can be found in garden stores, hardware, and pet stores too.
  • DIY herbal flea spray: Create your own herbal flea spray by mixing four liters of vinegar, two liters of water, half a liter of lemon juice and 250 ml of witch hazel (available in most supermarkets or you can buy it online). Vacuum the house and dispose of the dust outside the house in a bin. Wash all the bedding and upholstery. Wipe the nooks and corners of all the furniture and places where your pet rests. Once that is done spray the herbal flea spray around the house. This should be done regularly for it to be effective.
  • Lemon spray: Another effective home remedy for fleas is lemon spray. Slice a lemon very thinly and bring it to boil in a pint of water. Let this cool and rest overnight. Spray this over the furniture and places frequented by the pet.
  • Rosemary: This does not remove existing fleas but can serve as a flea repellant. Make an herbal powder combing rosemary with fennel, mint, wormwood, and rue. Sprinkle this wherever you suspect a flea attack.
  • Diatomaceous earth: This is a safe product, however, it should not be inhaled. This is a powder made out of a type of algae. This should not be sprayed when the pets are around and the person applying it should wear protective gear like masks and gloves. Once the powder is rested for a few hours, you can vacuum it. Check for diatomaceous earth manufactured for domestic purpose as it is not treated with any other chemicals. Table salt or borax spray can also serve as flea repellants.
  • Plants like pennyroyal, chrysanthemums, lavender, and spearmint have proven to be natural flea repellents. You can grow them in pots and place them in spots where your pets rest or which are dark. The chemicals and oils in the plants serve as repellants.
  • Some essential oils can also serve as effective flea repellants. Apply the oil to the pet’s skin and coat. Use a gentle comb to comb through. The fleas will drop. Collect them in water and freeze them.