Pets are loved by most people because they help in companionship, but at the same time they could be quite annoying due to fleas and ticks which can also have detrimental health effects on the animals. There are many chemical remedies for flea and tick infestation but some pet owners may opt for natural alternatives to safeguard their furry friends. Luckily, there exist several natural solutions that can aid in repelling and eliminating these parasites without resorting to the use of harsh chemicals. So, let us examine a few effective natural methods of ensuring your pets remain free from pests and in good health.
Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar is commonly used to naturally repel fleas and ticks. Its acid nature makes the skin unattractive to these parasites. Combine apple cider vinegar and water in equal parts in a spray bottle then spray it on pet fur keeping away from eyes, ears and nose. Reapply it whenever necessary; especially before outdoor activities.
Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade):
You sprinkle food grade diatomaceous earth on the fur of your pet, bedding or even on areas around them. It may be left there for several hours before you vacuum well. Do this over and over again to control flea and tick infestations.
Neem Oil:
Fleas and ticks can be repelled using neem oil, which is a natural insecticide with antibacterial and antifungal properties. For this, mix about 3 drops of neem oil with some coconut or olive oil and spread over the fur of your pet concentrating on areas where fleas and ticks are likely to hide. Be careful as it has a strong smell.
Cedar Oil:
Fleas and ticks can be kept away by cedar oil. You should put few drops of cedar oil into spray bottle filled with water then spray onto your pets’ fur, bedding and in other parts of your home or yard. Or
Lavender Oil:
The oil from lavender plant smells good and it is also repellant to fleas and ticks. After adding some drops of lavender oil in a spray bottle with water, sprinkle it onto your animal’s fur, bed and the surroundings. An alternative way is using few drops of lavender oil when shampooing your animal for more security reasons.
Rosemary:
The aromatic rosemary herb acts as natural flea collar or dip that can help get rid of fleas and ticks too. Boil fresh rosemary in water, let it to cool and then strain the liquid into a spray. Spray the rosemerry mixed water on your pet focusing on areas where fleas are likely to stay.
Lemon:
The source of lemon is citric acid having the ability to kill ticks and fleas. Put a cut up lemon into boiling water, let it cool, sieve it out and pour the liquid into a spray bottle. To keep insects away from your pets, apply this water that has been infused with lemons on their fur, beds and all over at home. It is poisonous if used on cats.
Eucalyptus Oil:
By using eucalyptus oil you can avoid ticks and fleas coming near your pet. In a spray bottle, add some drops of eucalyptus oil mixed with water and then sprinkle on your pets’ hair, bedding or household furniture. Be careful as eucalyptus oil may be deadly when swallowed in large quantities.
Garlic:
Garlic is well known for its natural ability to repel fleas when consumed by a pet. Include some pieces of new garlic that have been cut very small in your pet’s meal. However, when you give cats garlic, do not exceed the recommended levels because it becomes poisonous to them.
Regular Grooming and Cleaning:
Grooming on a regular basis and cleaning are vital in preventing and managing flea and tick infestations. Regularly bathe your pets using mild flea repellent shampoo and comb with a flea comb to eliminate any parasites. Launder in hot water frequently your pets bedding toys among others to kill off flea eggs or larvae.
One does not have to use harsh chemicals in order to keep fleas and ticks away from their pets. Through the use of these remedies found in nature and preventive measures, it is possible to get rid of all pests while maintaining the well-being of your dogs. For a better alternative for your personal pet, try different natural solutions and remember that you must also continue with the same prevention to remain free from pests. Therefore, these natural remedies should be included in the care plan for your pets as this gives you an assurance of their protection against fleas and ticks safely without any kind of dangers involved.