To fight flea infestations in dogs and cats, there are the classic solutions that you can buy from your veterinarian. However, pipettes, flea collars and antiparasitic tablets are not necessarily the most economical solutions (nor the healthiest). And when you want to limit the use of chemical products, alternatives are always welcome to avoid itching in your pet. Fortunately, there are many recipes to make natural, non-harmful repellent remedies as a preventive measure to protect your dog from fleas.
If you have an existing flea infestation, use a good home treatment to eliminate potential external parasite eggs and larvae in addition to a natural remedy with insecticidal effects. Diatomaceous earth, for example, is a very affordable, natural and healthy flea repellent for treating your pets and their environment.
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1. Brewer’s yeast against fleas in dogs
Feeding is a little known way to fight against fleas in our pets. For example, brewer’s yeast is one of those natural products that have a very effective natural repellent effect against flea bites. It is safe when properly dosed, and also provides vitamin B and beneficial amino acids to keep your pet’s claws, coat and skin healthy. Its prebiotics will take care of its immune system as well as its intestines.
You can add a little to his food as a supplement. You can add a small amount to his food as a supplement. You should use about one level tablespoon per day for a puppy or a dog weighing ten kilos. Then adjust the dose according to his weight. Reduce a little if you notice loose stools or constipation in your dog. (Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on the right dosage.) Otherwise, it is also possible to rub a glass of it on his hair to reinforce the anti-parasite effects. Leave it on for 2 to 3 days before brushing with a flea comb and repeat once a week for a month.
2. Cider vinegar against fleas in dogs
Cider vinegar makes your dog’s hair shiny and particularly silky. Its smell will have a repulsive effect, but can also have a curative use. In a spray, simply mix one part water to one part vinegar, then spray it on his coat, avoiding the area around his eyes and ears to avoid irritating them. If he is afraid of the spray, you can spray this care on a cloth and apply it on his coat. Do this before going for a walk.
If the infestation is already there, you can apply the vinegar (using the same mixture) after using a suitable neutral shampoo. Apply the mixture with a washcloth and leave for 10 minutes. Then comb out the parasites and throw them into a bowl of vinegar. Then rinse with warm water, treat the house and repeat two weeks later.
3. A mint and eucalyptus infusion
If you like the idea of using a flea treatment that leaves your dog’s coat smelling good, you’ll love this little recipe based on plants whose scent repels these unwanted parasites. What’s more, it’s very easy to prepare: throw a handful of mint and eucalyptus into a teapot and cover with a liter of boiling water. After letting the infusion set for 15 minutes, strain and let cool. All that remains is to apply with a spray bottle, always avoiding fragile areas. You can also add a glass of this lotion to the bath water of your four-legged friend!
4. Essential oils against fleas in dogs
Forbidden in cats, for whom it can be very toxic, essential oils can be used in dogs. However, you must limit yourself to certain specific oils and make sure that the animal tolerates them well. Their smell can indeed be unpleasant for his very sharp nose. So be careful! We also advise against direct application to the coat, as there is a risk that he will lick the product off. It is therefore better to dilute lavender, citronella or cedar essential oil in water and soak a bandana to tie around his neck.
Are the fleas already there? You can also mix 125 ml of water with 125 ml of vinegar and add 5 drops of cedar or lavender essential oil. Spray where your dog lies to dislodge fleas during heavy infestations.
5. Get rid of fleas in dogs with citrus fruits
Citrus is another odor that fleas don’t like, hence the repellent properties of this last remedy. Above all, the fruit and its peel are safe for your pet, especially if you choose them organically to limit his exposure to harmful pesticides.
If you are in a hurry, you can cut a citrus fruit in half (lemon, orange, grapefruit, lime…) and rub it on your dog’s coat. Alternatively, you can also cut up slices of citrus fruit, boil them in a small amount of water and leave them to infuse overnight under a lid. You will only have to apply this mixture with your hand or a washcloth, rubbing well to make this very concentrated product penetrate. Last option: add the juice of a lemon or an orange to 600 ml of water and spray it on the animal, avoiding sensitive areas.