Using Essential Oils for Flea Control in Cats

Commercial flea and tick control methods cannot be healthy for your cat; so instead, why not try essential oils for flea control in your pets.

Introduction

Outdoor cats are especially prone to fleas and ticks, although indoor cats can get them from an animal that has been outdoors. They are an annoying problem, especially when they start to bite your pet. Kitty will start to scratch the infected area, which may eventually begin to become irritated and start to bleed. So what’s there to do? Get rid of the problem with flea repellents, of course.


The Problems With Chemical Based Products

The problem with commercial repellents is that they contain harsh chemicals that may cause health problems in your cat. There is not a shortage of chemical based products available over-the-counter, from flea and tick collars to sprays, and even topical drops. However, these products have been found that in large enough doses can cause breathing problems, tremors, vomiting, skin irritations, permanent nerve damage and even death.

Some pets may experience hair loss and sores from flea collars, or where the topical drops have been applied--besides, the chemical fumes released by these products can harm everyone in the house, including you. These toxic drugs can also cause severe skin rashes, loss of hair, epileptic seizures, brain damage... And the list goes on. But could there be a better way to rid your cat of these tiny pests?

Types of Essential Oils for Flea Control

Maybe you have heard that essential oils can control fleas in cats. How effective are they, really? They are nearly as effective as commercial products, and they are much safer. There are several types of essential oils to choose from:

• citronella
• cedar
• peppermint
• rosemary
• eucalyptus
• lemongrass
• lavender 

 How to Use Essential Oils for Flea Control 

• Begin by dropping ten to twenty drops of an essential oil of your choice into a dark-colored, pint-sized glass bottle, along with distilled water. You can mix or match. Shake well before each use.
• Mist the cat before going anywhere, to avoid picking up fleas from another animal.
• Spray the area where you set up the crate or pen at shows. The fleas will avoid you and find another cat to bite.
• Keep the squirt bottle by the door so you can mist your cat before letting her outside, and once she returns.
• For longer term control, place a few drops of oil onto a cotton collar, and renew the oil whenever the aroma begins to fade.
• Place a few drops of oil onto your palms, rub them together, and apply it to your cat’s coat from her neck to the tail base.
• You can also use the solution to soothe your cat after getting bit by flies.

Conclusion

Because many of these plants produce oils that repel insects, they work well to keep insects away from humans and their pets, as well. They are all-natural, mild, and they will leave your pet’s coat looking fresh and healthy. Unlike toxic chemicals, these oils are nature’s own repellents that help with getting rid of fleas. So ditch the Frontline and go natural. Your cat will appreciate its fresh scent more than the harsh, smelly chemicals you use now.

Me -- Loki -- free of fleas.

References:
Essential Oils for Fleas and Ticks
Aromatherapy for Dogs: Tick and Flea Control 


**Note: If your cat begins to show signs of an allergic reaction to the oils, discontinue use immediately and consult with your veterinarian.**