Fleas and ticks carry a variety of diseases that can harm both your pets and their human owners. From personal experience, I know how uncomfortable flea and tick bites can be. While we want to keep our pets safe, topical flea and tick preventatives might not always be the best option.
Recently, the FDA warned that pills or chews in the isoxazoline class, used for flea and tick prevention, could cause neurological issues in dogs and cats. Isoxazolines, introduced in the 2010s, target an insect’s nervous system, but some pets have experienced adverse reactions like muscle tremors, ataxia, and seizures.
Here are three natural alternatives for flea and tick control:
1. Eliminate Their Breeding Ground: Fleas and ticks come from outside, often living in tall grass and areas with heat and moisture. Regularly trimming and cutting the grass can help reduce their numbers.
2. Use a Flea Comb: A flea comb is a cheap and effective tool to remove fleas, eggs, and ticks from your pet’s fur. These combs are readily available in pet stores.
3. Use a Natural Flea and Tick Powder: This powder can be made easily and cheaply at home. It’s 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
The powder uses diatomaceous earth (DE), neem powder, and essential oils. DE, made from crushed fossils, kills fleas and ticks by piercing their protective structures, causing them to dehydrate and die. Neem powder repels and kills common biting insects like mosquitoes and fleas. Essential oils like citronella, peppermint, and eucalyptus are known for their insect repellent properties.
Ingredients:
– Arrowroot powder
– Neem powder
– Food grade diatomaceous earth
– Powder duster
– Peppermint essential oil
– Citronella essential oil
– Eucalyptus essential oil
Instructions:
1. Mix three equal parts of arrowroot powder, neem powder, and DE. The arrowroot helps blend and dilute the other ingredients to prevent skin irritation.
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 making a mess indoors. Protect your dog’s face, as the powder can cause irritation. Pump the powder onto your dog’s fur and massage it in with your hands. Repeat as necessary. A fine dusting will remain on the outer coat.
For more DIY projects, you might enjoy the book “Do-It-Yourself Garden Projects & Crafts: 60 Planters, Bird Houses, Lotion Bars, Garlands, and More,” which offers creative ideas using home-grown and foraged materials.
