Fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance that cause itchy skin. These pests can also lead to bigger issues like skin infections, hot spots, tapeworms, or diseases such as Lyme and Ehrlichiosis. Even indoor pets aren't totally safe, especially if you have other animals coming and going or you live in a rural area like we do.
Around here, we choose a natural, low-tox approach. It takes a little consistency, but it’s worth it to protect our animals while supporting their overall health.
If you're looking for a gentle and effective way to prevent fleas and ticks, here are five methods we use regularly in our home. These tips focus primarily on dogs, but include notes on what’s safe (or not safe) around cats too.
1. Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
Type: Food-grade only. Do not use pool-grade DE.
How it works: DE is a fine, powdery substance made from fossilized algae. It works by damaging the outer shell of fleas and ticks, causing them to dehydrate. It is non-toxic when used appropriately.
How to use:
Lightly dust onto your dog’s coat, avoiding the face
Sprinkle in bedding, carpets, and along baseboards
Apply in outdoor areas where your pet spends time
Reapply every few days or after bathing
Important note: Always use in a well-ventilated area. Avoid inhalation and keep the dust low to prevent respiratory irritation.
Safe for cats: Yes, when used externally and cautiously. Avoid creating airborne dust.
Recommended options:
Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade) – $28.99
Buck Mountain Parasite Dust – $27.95
2. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Type: Raw, unfiltered, with "the mother"
How it works: ACV helps shift your pet’s skin pH, making them less attractive to fleas and ticks. It also supports digestion and immune health when used internally.
How to use:
Dogs: Add 1 teaspoon per 25 pounds of body weight to food daily
Cats: Add 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon to food daily. Start slow and monitor for tolerance
Topical use: Mix 1 part ACV with 5 parts water in a spray bottle and mist the coat. Safe for both dogs and cats when used properly.
Note: Always add ACV to food, not water. Some pets may avoid drinking water with added vinegar, which can lead to dehydration.
Preferred brand: Whitehouse ACV is widely available and affordable, usually around $12 per gallon.
3. Raw Garlic
Type: Fresh, organic garlic. Do not use powdered, cooked, or jarred forms.
How it works: Garlic contains natural sulfur compounds that help repel fleas and ticks from the inside out. When used properly, garlic is safe and effective for most healthy dogs.
How to use:
Finely chop garlic and let it sit for 10 minutes to activate allicin
Feed ¼ teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight, three to four times per week
Do not use in:
Puppies under 6 months
Dogs with anemia or immune-mediated disease
Pregnant or nursing dogs
Safe for cats: No. Garlic is toxic to cats and should not be used internally or topically.
4. Herbal Flea and Tick Spray
Type: Strong herbal infusions (not essential oils)
How it works: Many herbs are naturally unappealing to fleas and ticks due to their smell and properties. A strong tea made from these herbs can be used to mist your dog’s coat and outdoor gear.
Common herbs to use:
Lavender (safe for cats)
Rosemary (not safe for cats)
Neem leaf (caution with cats, not recommended for topical use)
Peppermint (not safe for cats)
Catnip (safe for cats)
How to use:
Brew a strong tea with one or more herbs
Let it cool, then strain and pour into a clean spray bottle
Spray onto your dog’s coat before going outside
Store unused spray in the fridge for up to one week
Safe for cats: If using cat-safe herbs like lavender and catnip, this spray may be used lightly around cats or on shared bedding. Do not spray directly onto cats unless the formula is confirmed safe for feline use.
5. Neem Oil
Type: Cold-pressed, pure neem oil (not an essential oil)
How it works: Neem oil helps repel insects and soothes irritated skin. It is often used as a targeted treatment for hot spots, flea-prone areas, or bug-prone legs and bellies.
How to use:
Dilute neem oil at a ratio of 1 part neem to 10 parts carrier oil, such as coconut oil
Apply sparingly to high-risk areas such as the legs, belly, and base of the tail
Avoid the face and use only as needed
Safe for cats: No. Neem oil is not safe for cats and should not be used on or around them.
A Few Final Tips
Location matters
Flea and tick presence varies depending on your environment. In wooded or rural areas, or homes with multiple pets, you may need to combine several of these methods for best results.
Consistency is key
Natural remedies do not linger in your pet’s system like conventional treatments. Regular reapplication is necessary, especially during peak flea and tick seasons.
Work with a holistic vet
Before making changes to your pet’s care routine, especially when switching from chemical preventatives or introducing herbs, it’s always best to consult a professional who understands both conventional and holistic care.
You can find one at: AHVMA Holistic Vet Directory
References
Garlic for Pets – Only Natural Pet (Dr. Jean Hofve)
Garlic: Poison or Medicine? – Dogs Naturally Magazine
Garlic Safety – Volhard Dog Nutrition
AHVMA – Natural Flea and Tick Prevention
Neem Oil for Dogs – Natural News
Is DE Safe? – Dogs Naturally Magazine
Stay tuned for the next post in this series, where we will explore natural approaches to heartworm prevention and how to support your dog’s immune system safely.
If you have questions, or if you have had success with a natural flea and tick method, I would love to hear from you.