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Apr 11, 2025   Critter Nets - Blogs

How to Make a Homemade Flea Spray for Dogs and Cats

Introduction

Fleas can be a nightmare for pet owners. These tiny pests cause constant itching, skin irritation, and even infections if left untreated. While commercial flea treatments are available, many contain harsh chemicals that may not be ideal for pets with sensitive skin or allergies.

A homemade flea spray is a safe, natural, and cost-effective way to get rid of fleas and prevent re-infestations. In this guide, we’ll explore easy DIY flea sprays using natural ingredients like apple cider vinegar, lemon, essential oils, and herbs that are safe for both dogs and cats.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar Flea Spray

✔Why It Works:
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) creates an acidic environment on your pet’s skin, making it less appealing to fleas while also improving coat health.

✔Ingredients:

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (helps repel fleas)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (natural flea deterrent)

✔Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.
2. Lightly spray on your pet’s fur, focusing on the neck, belly, and tail area (avoid eyes and ears).
3. Use once daily or as needed.

🚨 Note: ACV is safe for both dogs and cats, but test a small area first to check for sensitivity.

2. Lemon Flea Spray

✔Why It Works:
Lemons contain d-limonene, a natural compound that kills and repels fleas.

✔Ingredients:

• 1 fresh lemon (sliced)
• 2 cups water

✔Instructions:

1. Boil 2 cups of water, then add the lemon slices.
2. Let the mixture steep overnight.
3. Pour into a spray bottle and apply lightly to your pet’s coat.
4. Use this spray twice a week for best results.

🚨 Caution: While lemon is safe for dogs, some cats may be sensitive to citrus. Always test a small area first.

3. Essential Oil Flea Spray

✔Why It Works:
Essential oils like lavender, cedarwood, and peppermint are powerful flea repellents.

✔Ingredients:

• 2 cups distilled water
• 1 tablespoon witch hazel (helps the oils mix with water)
• 5 drops lavender oil
• 5 drops cedarwood oil
• 5 drops lemongrass oil

✔Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.
2. Lightly mist your pet’s coat, bedding, and surroundings.
3. Use every 2–3 days.

🚨 Caution: Some essential oils are toxic to cats (like tea tree and pennyroyal). For cats, use only lavender and cedarwood in low doses.

4. Herbal Flea Spray

✔Why It Works:
Herbs like rosemary and peppermint naturally repel fleas while also being soothing for your pet’s skin.

✔Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
• 2 tablespoons dried peppermint
• 2 cups boiling water

✔Instructions:

1. Boil 2 cups of water and add the herbs.
2. Let the mixture cool completely, then strain out the herbs.
3. Pour the herbal liquid into a spray bottle and apply to your pet’s fur, bedding, and furniture.
4. Use every other day for flea control.

5. Baking Soda & Vinegar Flea Spray

✔Why It Works:
Baking soda dehydrates fleas while vinegar repels them.

✔Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons baking soda
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water

✔Instructions:

1. Mix baking soda with water, then add vinegar (it will fizz slightly).
2. Pour into a spray bottle and shake well.
3. Lightly mist your pet’s coat, bedding, and carpets.
4. Use once a week for flea prevention.

6. Coconut Oil Flea Spray

✔Why It Works:
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which kills fleas on contact and moisturizes your pet’s skin.

✔Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 cup warm water

✔Instructions:

1. Melt coconut oil in warm water.
2. Pour into a spray bottle and shake well.
3. Lightly mist your pet’s coat before brushing.
4. Use twice a week.

🚨 Note: Coconut oil is safe for both dogs and cats, but avoid excessive use as it can make fur greasy.

How to Use Flea Sprays Effectively

✅ Apply Lightly: Only mist the fur—don’t drench your pet.
✅ Focus on Key Areas: Fleas love the neck, tail, and belly.
✅ Use Regularly: Apply at least twice a week for prevention.
✅ Spray Bedding & Furniture: Fleas hide in carpets, couches, and pet beds.
✅ Vacuum Often: Regular vacuuming removes flea eggs and prevents re-infestations.

Conclusion

A homemade flea spray is a safe, natural alternative to chemical-based treatments. Using ingredients like apple cider vinegar, lemon, essential oils, and coconut oil, you can effectively repel and eliminate fleas without harming your pet.

🐾 Try one of these DIY flea sprays today and keep your furry friend flea-free—naturally!

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