Tis’ the season for fleas. These blood sucking parasites are the bane of pet owners all across the country. It’s terrible to see your beloved pet victimized by red bites, itchiness, and hair loss. Outdoor cats and dogs can pick up fleas quick by running through brush or even by simply laying outside in the grass, or playing with another infected animal at the dog park or groomer. Flea prevention is required pretty much year round in many parts of the U.S.
Aside from veterinary approved flea baths, collars, and treatments, here are some natural flea remedies:
1. Rosemary
Fresh rosemary is delicious to the human nose, yet fleas hate it. So rather than bathe your pooch or kitting in a chemically laden flea bath, why not try mixing up an all-natural bath you can use to banish fleas at home? Simply combine 2 cups of diced and fresh rosemary herb and steep in a liter of boiling water. Let the mixture cool down and strain the herbs and leaves from the water. Now it’s ready to mix with a gallon of room temperature water to soak your cat or dog.
2. Flea fighting foliage
Rosemary is just one plant that naturally repels fleas. You can banish these microscopic insects from your yard and around your front walkway by planting specific flea-fighting plants. Shop for lemon balm, geranium, mint, basil, catnip, sage, and lemongrass to plant in any area in your yard where your dog or cat tends to hang out.
3. Baking soda
If fleas have already infested your home and carpets, there is still hope. An effective flea repelling remedy can be found in a simple box of baking soda. Simply sprinkle baking soda on infested carpets and furniture before vacuuming. The baking soda is abrasive enough to help lift the insects from the fibers of your carpet. Be sure to empty the contents of the vacuum right away so the fleas don’t escape back into your home.
4. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a known probiotic, often taken as a tonic to easy digestive upset and replenish gut flora. However, this superfood also serves as a potent repellent against fleas. Make your own natural flea spray by mixing a 50-50 diluted solution of apple cider vinegar and luke warm water. Spray this mixture lightly over your pet’s fur before they head outside to roam or play. You can also use this solution as a flea remover paired with a flea comb to remove fleas from your pet’s coat.
