Fleas and ticks can spread a variety of diseases that not only affect your pets but can also harm you. I’ve experienced the discomfort of flea and tick bites firsthand. While we all want to protect our furry friends, topical flea and tick preventatives might not be the safest choice.

The FDA recently warned about potential neurological side effects in dogs and cats treated with isoxazoline class pills or chews. Isoxazolines, introduced in the 2010s, are pesticides designed to target an insect’s nervous system without affecting mammals. However, they have been linked to adverse reactions like muscle tremors, ataxia, and seizures in some pets.

3 Natural Alternatives For Flea & Tick Control

Here are three natural ways to keep fleas and ticks off your pets:

1. Eliminate their breeding ground: Fleas and ticks thrive in tall grass and areas with heat and moisture. Regularly trim and cut your grass to reduce their habitat.

2. Use a flea comb: An inexpensive flea comb can help remove fleas, eggs, and ticks from your pet’s fur. These combs are affordable and available at pet stores or online.

3. Use a natural flea and tick powder: You can make a natural flea and tick powder at home for a fraction of the cost of commercial medications. This powder is a topical application that kills fleas, ticks, and other biting insects on contact without entering your pet’s bloodstream.

How to Make Natural Flea & Tick Powder

This natural powder uses diatomaceous earth, neem powder, and essential oils.

– Diatomaceous Earth (DE): A non-toxic powder made from crushed fossils. It kills fleas and ticks by piercing their protective structures, causing them to dehydrate and die. It’s safe for humans and animals and can even be taken internally to eliminate certain worms in dogs.
– Neem Powder: A natural repellent that works on common biting insects like mosquitoes and fleas. It’s not very effective against ticks.
– Essential Oils: Oils like citronella, peppermint, and eucalyptus are known for their insect-repellent properties. This combination is effective against fleas and mosquitoes.

Ingredients:

– Arrowroot powder
– Neem Powder
– Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth
– Powder Duster
– Peppermint Essential Oil
– Citronella Essential Oil
– Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Instructions:

1. Mix equal parts of arrowroot powder, neem powder, and DE. The arrowroot helps blend and dilute the other ingredients, making it gentle on your pet’s skin.
2. Add 30 drops each of peppermint, eucalyptus, and citronella oils. Mix well.
3. Put the powder into a shaker or powder duster for easy application.

How To Use:

Apply the powder outside to avoid mess. Protect your dog’s face as the powder can cause irritation. Pump the powder onto your dog’s fur and use your hands to massage it in. Repeat as needed, leaving a fine dusting on the outer coat.

For more DIY tutorials and projects, check out my book on DIY garden projects and crafts, available on Amazon.