The Best Essential Oils to Get Rid of Fleas

The strong scents of essential oils have been known to be helpful in repelling various household pests. If your fur babies blessed you with itchy bites on your belly – or you simply want to prevent that from happening – consider using essential oils to get rid of fleas. Scroll down for the best options.

The Best Essential Oils for Fleas

Cedarwood Essential Oil

Cedarwood essential oil is considered a natural insect deterrent [source] and it’s effective against fabric-dwelling bugs such as fleas. Its strong aroma disrupts the pheromones of fleas, disorienting them and preventing infestation. It also dehydrates flea eggs and larvae, reducing their ability to mature.

To use, mix 5-10 drops of cedarwood oil with water or a carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil) and spray onto affected surfaces, such as pet bedding, furniture, or carpets. You can add a few drops to pet shampoo to kill and repel fleas naturally.

Lemongrass Essential Oil

Lemongrass essential oil is famously used to repel mosquitos, but it also works well on fleas [source] due to its content of citral and geraniol. The citrusy scent makes it hard for fleas to locate their host, plus it kills flea larvae on contact and can be used as a preventive treatment.

To use, mix 10 drops of lemongrass oil with 1 cup of water and spray carpets, furniture, and pet bedding. Add to a natural dog shampoo for extra flea-killing power, but don’t use for cats, since it’s toxic to them.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender oil is known for its calming scent, which is intolerable to fleas, making it an effective natural repellent. Additionally, it can prevent flea eggs from hatching and soothe irritated skin caused by flea bites.

Add 5-6 drops to a spray bottle filled with water and apple cider vinegar for a natural flea spray. Dilute with coconut oil and apply a small amount to your pet’s collar or bedding. Lavender essential oil is generally considered safe for dogs and used in very diluted forms for cats, but it’s a good idea to consult your vet first.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint oil contains menthol, which overwhelms fleas’ nervous system. Its strong scent acts as a deterrent, and it can be used in diluted forms to repel fleas from infested areas – preventively, rather than as an insecticide. Its cooling effect can help relieve itching and inflammation caused by flea bites.

Use by mixing 5 drops of peppermint oil with water and witch hazel in a flea-repelling spray.

Rosemary Essential Oil

Rosemary contains eucalyptol, which acts as a natural flea repellent. It helps stimulate blood circulation, promoting healing of flea bites. However, this oil works best for mild flea infestations rather than severe cases.

Can I Use Essential Oils for Fleas on Pets?

Incorporating these essential oils into your flea control regimen can offer a natural alternative to chemical treatments. However, it’s crucial to use them responsibly to ensure the safety of all household members. Cats and dogs are sensitive to strong smells, and some essential oils are toxic to them. However, you can still use essential oils on your flea-infested fur baby, as long as you use caution. This means:

consult your vet before using essential oils to treat fleas on your pet
make sure the oils you chose are non-toxic for pets – especially cats!
always dilute essential oils before applying topically

To repel fleas on your cat or dog, add a few drops of (diluted) essential oil to their shampoo, collar or bed. Also make sure not to apply the oils to places they can lick.

A good dilution rule is 1 drop of essential oil per 1 tablespoon of carrier oil.

(Diluted) lavender is considered safe for both cats and dogs, while peppermint, tea tree or pine are toxic to pets. Pay extra caution if you’re planning on using essential oils on cats, as their livers can’t metabolize most essential oils.

Homemade Flea Repellent Spray

This all-natural flea spray is safe for dogs (not recommended for cats) and can be used on pet bedding, carpets, and furniture.

Ingredients:

1 cup water
1 cup apple cider vinegar
10 drops cedarwood oil
5 drops lavender oil
5 drops lemongrass oil
5 drops rosemary oil
1 teaspoon witch hazel

Instructions:

Pour the water and apple cider vinegar into a spray bottle. Add the witch hazel to helps oils blend better.Add the essential oils one by one. Close the bottle and shake well before each use.

Spray on pet bedding, carpets, and furniture where fleas might hide. Spray around your yard or dog’s play area to deter fleas. If needed and approved by vet, lightly mist over your dog’s fur, avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Use daily for active infestations and 2-3 times/week for maintenance.