Flea Free for You and Me

Citrus peel extract is an excellent choice against fleas for dogs, because its components, limonene and linalool, kill all stages of the flea’s life cycle. I have completely eradicated our home and dogs of fleas using citrus peel extract. I don’t think anything else works as well. Still, you must use caution: While it is a natural material, and much safer for health and the environment than toxic synthetic pesticides, it is not without problems, especially for asthmatics (see “Hints,” below). Citrus shouldn’t be used around cats.

For Fleas from and on Dogs

Assuming you don’t own a cat, and you keep your windows open when using citrus peel extract products, get rid of fleas in your house by washing floors twice a week with a solution of 1/4 cup citrus peel extract (available in health food stores; citra solve is one brand) in 1 to 2 gallons of water. Spray bedding with a mixture of 2 teaspoons citrus peel extract and 2 cups of water in a spray bottle.

To make a fur rub for the dog, cut up 4 lemons, and simmer for one hour in 1 quart of water, adding more water as it evaporates. Cool the mixture, strain, and massage into the dog’s coat. Note that there are a number of pure citrus-peel-based pet products on the market (see Shop for Supplies, below).

For Cats and Dogs
Herbal repellents work well to repel fleas. Make an herbal infusion by adding a handful of dried herbs (available in most health food stores) to a tea pot and fill with boiling water. Let the “tea” set overnight, and then strain it into a spray bottle. Recommended herbs include southernwood, rue, rosemary, sage, catmint, eucalyptus, and leaves from the black walnut tree. Start with just a small amount to make sure the pet can tolerate the herb.

Boric acid and borax are also widely used against fleas. Sprinkle a thin powder or boric acid or borax on carpets, leave on for a few days, and then vacuum up.

Other Flea Controls

Feed your dogs (but not cats) garlic and yeast.
Wash your pets frequently.
Use a flea comb.
Make your own flea shampoo.
Use a natural flea collar.

Read more: Pets, Everyday Pet Care, Pests, Remedies & Treatments

By Annie B. Bond

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

New G.

11:32PM PST on Jan 15, 2012

Thank you.

send a green star

Miss N.

2:51AM PST on Dec 14, 2011

Thank you for article

KS G.

5:50AM PDT on Oct 12, 2011

Thanks for the article.

5:49AM PDT on Oct 12, 2011

Fran C.

2:22AM PDT on Jul 19, 2011

no one has given a str8 answer on how to use these products effectively..do i sprinkle my cats and dog w oils,bathe them in them,feed them brewers yeast,sprinkle it on them,both,what amounts of herbs r to b used,dry,fresh,etc. I dont wanna hurt or kill them.

Beng Kiat L.

12:54AM PDT on Jun 25, 2010

Thanks

Jan C.

12:34PM PDT on May 4, 2010

I have used borax for more than two decades, by recommendation by the vet. It has worked very well---and I live in Florida!

Wendye K.

1:04PM PST on Feb 26, 2010

Heather B.

6:23PM PST on Feb 1, 2010

Thanks for the tips, Annie.

Catman P.