Fleas are tiny parasites that usually make your beloved pets their hosts. We know that they are disturbing creatures. They affect not only your pets but also you.
You do not need to worry anymore. We are here to rescue you. You must have heard that peppermint oil is effective against fleas. Is it true?
We will discuss the effect of peppermint oil on fleas, how you can use it to get rid of fleas, safety measures that you need to keep in mind while using peppermint oil, and what other products and techniques you can use to eliminate fleas.
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What is The Effect of Peppermint Oil on Fleas?
Peppermint oil has the potential to repel as well as kill fleas.
Peppermint oil has a strong smell that humans usually admire, but fleas hate it. This causes them to stay away from it.
Commercial oil has certain alcoholic components in minute quantities. The concentrated oil solution can thus kill fleas.
Does Peppermint Oil Kill Fleas?
The simple answer to this query is yes. But it is not recommended to use it to kill fleas. Let us know why.
Peppermint oil is known to kill fleas if used in higher concentrations. But peppermint oil is an essential oil, and like every other essential oil, it can cause skin problems and allergies when used in concentrated form, especially in cats.
So, it is advised to use peppermint oil only as a preventive measure to repel fleas and use it along with other flea repellents and killers for the best results.
How to Use Peppermint Oil to Get Rid of Fleas?
Spraying Peppermint Oil Solution
You can prepare a peppermint oil spray solution that can repel fleas.
Firstly, you have to take a spray bottle and then mix 12 parts of water with 1 part of peppermint oil. Shake the bottle well, and your spray is ready to use.
Spray the solution everywhere in your home. Protect your eyes and face. Do not forget your pet’s bed. You can also spray the solution on your lawn.
Remember to repeat the process 2 to 3 times a week. Also, clean your home immediately after spraying the oil solution.
Preparing a Flea Repellent Collar
You must love buying collars for your pets. What can be a better option than using this collar as an effective flea repellent?
You can take a collar and dip it in peppermint oil. Take it out and let it dry naturally. Congrats! Your DIY flea-repellent collar is ready to use.
Soaking Cotton Balls in Peppermint Oil
You can also prepare tiny cotton balls and soak them in peppermint oil. The balls will retain the smell of oil and will repel fleas.
You can place these balls in corners of your home and usually neglected areas that can be potential hiding spots for fleas.
Planting Peppermint Plants
You can plant peppermint plants on your lawn. It is not a direct method of using peppermint oil, but it is surely a great way of repelling fleas from your home.
Benefits Of Using Peppermint Oil For Flea Control
Non-toxic
Peppermint oil is non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets. Unlike chemical flea treatments, which can be harmful if ingested or inhaled, peppermint oil poses no risk to your family’s health.
Environmentally friendly
Peppermint oil is a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical flea treatments. It does not contain harmful chemicals that can harm the environment, and it is biodegradable.
Effective
Peppermint oil has been shown to be effective in repelling fleas. The strong scent of peppermint oil is overwhelming to fleas and can help to deter them from infesting your home and pets.
Soothing
Peppermint oil has a cooling effect that can help to soothe irritated skin. This can be especially beneficial for pets that suffer from flea bites, as it can help to alleviate itching and discomfort.
Versatile
Peppermint oil can be used in a variety of ways to control fleas. It can be added to your pet’s shampoo, used as a flea spray for your home, or even applied topically to your pet’s fur.
Overall, using peppermint oil for flea control is a safe and effective way to keep your home and pets free of fleas.
Precautions to Take While Using Peppermint Oil
- Always dilute the oil before spraying it. Wear a mask and gloves while spraying the solution.
- Do not ignore the cracks, crevices, and corners of your home. These sites are hiding spots for fleas.
- Always spray the oil solution away from you and do not spray it directly on your pets.
- Do not use peppermint oil on your cats without consulting a vet. It is toxic for cats.
- Clean your home and bathe your pets regularly. It will stop the flea population from growing at an exponential rate and also lead to the removal of dead flea bodies.
- It is believed that rubbing oil on your pet can repel fleas. But you need to understand that oil is toxic and can cause allergies. So, it is better to avoid this method.
Other Natural Remedies For Flea Control
You know by now that diluted peppermint oil is just a preventive measure. So, you also need to use some other products and techniques to eliminate fleas completely.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous Earth is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It works by dehydrating fleas and can be sprinkled on carpets, pet bedding, and furniture to kill fleas. Diatomaceous Earth is non-toxic and safe for pets and humans, but it is important to use food-grade diatomaceous earth for flea control.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is another natural remedy that can repel fleas. It has a calming effect and can be added to pet shampoo or used as a spray to repel fleas. Lavender oil is also safe for use around children and pets.
Cedarwood Oil
Cedarwood oil is another essential oil that can be effective in controlling fleas. It has a strong scent that repels fleas and can be used as a spray or added to pet shampoo. Cedarwood oil is safe for use on dogs, but should not be used on cats.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural flea repellent that can be used to treat carpets, furniture, and pet bedding. It is acidic and works by dehydrating fleas. Lemon juice should be diluted with water before use, and it may cause discoloration on light-colored fabrics.
Rosemary
Rosemary is an herb that has natural flea-repellent properties. It can be used as a rinse after bathing your pet or as a spray for your home. Rosemary is safe for use on dogs and cats.
Final Words
Contact a vet if you feel that the flea population is humongous and you are not able to get rid of them on your own. They are experienced and can do the job better.
That’s it for now. We hope that this article was helpful for you and all your doubts about the use of peppermint oil to repel and kill fleas are resolved.
