We’re in flea and tick season, and it’s only getting worse as summer gets closer. I didn’t plan to make this natural flea and tick spray when I did, but it turned into a bit of an emergency DIY situation. I have two adorable dogs, and even though I take good care of them (yes, I give them their flea and tick meds!), we still deal with the occasional tick after trips to the park.
I’m also in a bunch of natural, non-toxic Facebook groups, and I keep seeing posts about people getting tick bites. So scary.
While Lyme disease isn’t a huge concern here in California, I’m extra cautious when it comes to my dogs. That’s why I prefer using natural recipes for them, especially when it comes to what goes on their fur or gets used around our home.
Natural Flea and Tick Spray Recipe:
Use this spray as a preventative in combination with your dog’s regular flea/tick treatment. It contains essential oils known for their pest-repelling properties and a natural vet recommended it. Not safe for cats. Store it in a cool, dark place and use it within 2–3 weeks.
Ingredients
- 5 drops of a essential oil like cedarwood, peppermint, lemongrass, Rosemary, geranium, eucalyptus. Make sure to use a high-quality, pure essential oil.
- 5 drops neem oil
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup Apple cider vinegar
In pet care, people use neem oil for its insect-repelling properties, as it helps deter fleas, ticks, and other pests. It also offers antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities, which soothe irritated skin and prevent infections. Many DIY pest sprays, like the one you’re making, include neem oil because it repels insects effectively while remaining gentle on pets.
Instructions:
1. Start with the Base
In a small mixing bowl or measuring cup, combine 1/2 cup of water with 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar.
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2. Prep the Oils
In a separate small dish, mix your 5 drops of essential oil with the neem oil. (This helps them blend more easily with the water-vinegar mix.)
3. Combine and Mix
Pour the oil mixture into the vinegar and water. Stir or shake to combine.
4. Transfer to a Spray Bottle
Pour your final mixture into a clean spray bottle. Shake well before every use, since oils and water naturally separate.
Notes:
- NOT FOR CATS: This blend is only dog-safe. Essential oils can be toxic to cats, so if you’re making a cat version, just use apple cider vinegar and water, or check with a vet about safe alternatives.
- The essential oils listed above are known for their natural flea-repelling properties. This recipe was given by a natural vet.
- You can also use a few drops of catnip oil.
How to Use Natural Flea and Tick Spray :
Shake well before each use. Spray on your dog’s bedding or leash (test fabric first).
Lightly mist your dog’s coat, avoiding eyes, nose, and genitals. You can also spray onto your hands and gently rub into their fur. Focus on legs, belly, tail area, and neck, common spots where fleas and ticks like to hide. Use before outdoor walks, hikes, or trips to the park.
Natural Flea and Tick Spray for Dogs
Ingredients
- 5 drops of essential oil like cedarwood, peppermint, lemongrass, Rosemary, geranium, eucalyptus
- 5 drops drops neem oil
- 1/2 cup cup water
- 1/4 cup Apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Mix together the apple cider vinegar and water.
- Add in your drops of essential oils to the neem oil.
- Then add to the water mixture.
- Pour into a spray bottle. Shake before every use.
Notes
- Not suitable for cats because of the essential oils. For a cat flea spray, simply remove the essential oils and just use acv and water.
- From my knowledge, these essential oils are best for a flea remedy. This recipe was given by a natural vet.
- A few drops of catnip oil can also be used.
