Fleas and ticks can become a worrisome issue for every pet parent. They not only cause excessive itching in your pets but also infest carpets, furniture, and fabrics, wreaking havoc in the entire household. Commercially available chemicals may cause skin irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and even seizures in pets. Here are some natural remedies to get rid of fleas and ticks on pets and in your home.

1. Dish soap trap
Fill a small plate or bowl with warm water and add some dish soap. Leave this mixture in a place that has frequent flea activity. This will act as a glue and trap most of the fleas due to the high viscosity it emits. For best results, it is best to replace the mixture every day. It is most effective at night since fleas are nocturnal creatures. Placing a candle near the mixture is also advised; however, it can result in a fire hazard if left unattended.

2. DIY flea spray
To make a flea spray mix 4 liters of vinegar in 2 liters of water with 500 ml of lemon juice and 250 ml of witch hazel. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Sprinkle the mixture on furniture, pet beds, carpets, and window sills. However, make sure to vacuum and clean the furniture before applying the mixture. To make a flea spray for pets heat a liter of water, cut lemon slices, and some sprigs of fresh rosemary. Leave the mixture overnight and then strain it. Spray it on your pet’s belly, tail, legs, and ears (leaving the face) before going for a walk.

3. Natural oil spray
Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, lemongrass, and cedar can be diluted in water and sprayed on pets to keep them away from ticks and fleas. But make sure to apply very little quantity as the sense of smell in pets is much higher than in humans. A few drops can also be added to a pet’s shampoo or collar. Neem and coconut oil repeals fleas. Even rose geranium oil can be applied in small quantities near the shoulder blade or the base of the tail.

4. Diatomaceous earth (DE)
This powder is the remains of fossilized organisms known as diatoms. It is non-toxic to humans and dries out flea eggs so that they cannot hatch. Simply sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth on areas that are full of fleas and ticks. Leave it for 48 hours and then vacuum the space. Make sure the powder purchased is food-grade DE. The chemically-treated powder is used in manufacturing units and swimming pools. The dust of DE can irritate humans and pets so it is suggested to wear a mask when sprinkling the powder. Once the dust is settled DE is safe.