Natural remedies are becoming pet owners’ number one choice for pet care.
When it comes to flea control, many pet owners are looking for less toxic and more natural remedies. Here are some natural options for flea control for your pets and home.
DOGS
Try mixing some garlic and Brewer’s yeast into your dog’s food, this tends to repel fleas.
Essential oils such as citronella, eucalyptus and rosemary, diluted appropriately and used correctly, can naturally repel fleas. Place a couple of drops into 400ml of water and spray directly onto your dog’s coat. Be sure to use high quality essential oils from a reputable source.
Apple cider vinegar not only treats fleas but helps to balance a dog’s pH levels. To make the spray, dilute six cups of high quality apple cider vinegar with four cups of water and just a dash of salt. Mix well and then spray directly onto your pup’s coat.
Try a rosemary bath! Steep two cups of fresh rosemary leaves in boiling water. Once cooled, strain the mixture and collect. Wash your dog with the rosemary steep being sure to completely cover their coat. Do not wash off, apparently it is the smell that repels fleas.
CATS
Citric acid is a natural flea killer so whip up some lemon spray for your cat. Simply cut one large lemon into quarters, squeeze the lemon juice into 500ml water then add the remaining lemon and steep for three hours. This solution is best worked into your cat’s coat with a comb that is dipped into the solution. Be sure to monitor your cat’s skin for any irritation from the acidic solution. You can also add a cup of lemon juice into the laundry while washing your cat’s bedding.
We recommend a rosemary rub for cats rather than a bath. Pick fresh rosemary leaves and grind them to a powder. Sprinkle in areas your cat likes to sleep or hang out.
Lavender is not only good at repelling flies it can also repel fleas. Pick a bunch of lavender and steep in hot water for 12 hours, strain and pop the liquid into either a spray bottle or a jar. Then either spray onto your cat’s coat or dip your cat’s comb into the jar and work through your cat’s fur.
RABBITS
Yes, rabbits get fleas, too, so why not add some apple cider vinegar into their drinking water. Simply add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into four litres of water and fill their water bowls or bottles. Otherwise you can mix one part vinegar to one part water and spritz on your rabbit’s fur. Rub into the fur, paying special attention to the areas where fleas gather.
You can also try using bayleaf, rosemary or sage as natural flea repellents by hanging them around your rabbit’s enclosure.
OTHER AILMENTS
So what about natural remedies for other ailments?
If you notice mites on your bird, try a baking soda soak. Fill the sink with warm water and add baking soda until you see it fizz. Try to keep your bird in the water for about 15-20 minutes and repeat daily until the mites are gone. Be sure to dry your bird thoroughly so they don’t get pneumonia.
If your pet is stung by a bee, remove the stinger and apply ice. If you want to offer further relief to your pet, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply liberally over the sting. If you see further swelling, get to your nearest vet as soon as possible.
For irritated skin, try one of the many treatments below.
Dab milk of magnesia on insect bites or hot spots.
Apply aloe vera gel on the affected area.
Dog hot spots can be soothed in a green or chamomile tea bath.
Apply apple cider vinegar onto the irritated skin.
Mix two cups of warm water with one teaspoon of Epsom salt and apply to the affected area, or for sore paws bathe directly in the solution.
Solidified coconut oil can help soothe canine eczema, skin infections and insect bites.
There are many natural remedies you can use to keep your pet happy and healthy. If you are unsure whether to use a specific natural treatment then have a chat with your vet or vet nurse about it before trying.
Disclaimer: This article is not to be taken as a replacement for veterinary advice or prescription medicine. If in doubt, seek veterinary advice.