Natural Flea & Tick Prevention for Dogs & Cats
Protect Your Pet Without Harsh Chemicals
Flea and Tick season is officially here! I’ve been getting an influx of emails and calls from my clients asking how to support their dogs and cats naturally. If you’re looking for a safer alternative to conventional flea and tick treatments, you’re not alone!
Did you know many commercial flea and tick products contain pesticides linked to cancer, neurological issues, and other health concerns in pets? As a holistic pet health coach specializing in nutrition and cancer prevention, I’ve seen firsthand how switching to natural solutions can make a huge difference in a pet’s overall health, while keeping pests at bay.
With a natural approach, it’s important to take a layered strategy. Unlike chemical pesticides that kill fleas and ticks, natural solutions work as deterrents, meaning they repel pests rather than eliminate them on contact. Because of this, consistent reapplication is key, and it’s best to combine multiple methods for the most effective protection.
Step 1: A Whole-Food, Species-Appropriate Diet
The foundation of natural pest prevention starts from the inside out. A fresh, minimally processed diet, preferably home-cooked or raw, supports a strong immune system, making your pet less attractive to parasites.
I’ve personally noticed (and have heard this from countless clients and colleagues) that after switching from a highly processed kibble or canned diet to a species-appropriate diet, fleas and intestinal parasites become a thing of the past. Pests don’t like healthy animals! When the immune system is thriving, the body is naturally more resistant to infestations.
💡 Working with a pet nutritionist like myself can help you create a balanced, whole-food diet tailored to your pet’s needs. 👉 https://calmingcreek.com/services
Step 2: Garlic for Natural Flea & Tick Prevention
Garlic is a powerful, natural way to help protect your pets from fleas and ticks. While many people believe garlic is toxic to pets, when used properly and in the right amounts, it can be a safe and effective addition to your flea and tick prevention routine.
How Garlic Works Against Fleas & Ticks
Garlic contains sulfur compounds that, when metabolized, create an odor that is undetectable to humans but repels pests like fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. It also supports a healthy immune system, which can help your pet naturally resist parasites.
Safe Dosage Guidelines
Garlic should always be fed in moderation and based on your pet’s weight:
✔ Dogs: 1 teaspoon of fresh, finely minced garlic per 15 lbs of body weight daily
✔ Cats: A much smaller amount is recommended, ⅛ teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight, a few times per week
For best results, introduce garlic gradually and always use fresh, raw garlic--not garlic powder or supplements with added ingredients.
Additional Benefits of Garlic
✔️ Boosts the immune system
✔️ Supports cardiovascular health
✔️ Acts as a natural detoxifier
✔️ Provides antibacterial and antifungal properties
🚫 Avoid garlic if your pet has anemia, is on blood-thinning medications, or has certain sensitivities.
🚫 Not recommended for very young puppies or kittens.
Step 3: Multi-Layered Natural Pest Protection
My Natural Flea, Tick & Mosquito Prevention Routine
As a holistic pet health coach and animal intuitive, I take a completely natural approach to flea, tick, and mosquito prevention. I share my home with four cats and seven dogs, and I never use conventional veterinarian-provided pesticides on them. Instead, I rely on a multi-layered approach that focuses on natural repellents, essential oils, and environmental management to keep pests away, without exposing my pets to harmful chemicals.
In addition to diet, here are some of my favorite natural options. There are certainly other good products, but these are ones I have had success with. The items with the “🔹” are my top choices. Remember, just one or two methods won’t cut it. A combination or layered approach works best! Here’s what I do to keep my pets pest-free without pesticides:
🔹 Perimeter & Outdoor Treatment – I spray the areas around my home and my animals’ resting spots with an essential oil spray. My go-to is Wondercide’s hose attachment spray, which makes application easy and effective.
🔹 Daily Coat Protection – Before my dogs go outside, I mist their coats with Wondercide’s essential oil spray. Another option is the one from CBD Dog Health, which also soothes itchy skin. You can also make your own spray:
DIY Essential Oil Flea & Tick Spray
✔ 1 cup distilled water
✔ 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or witch hazel
✔ 10 drops cedarwood essential oil
✔ 5 drops lavender or lemongrass essential oil
✔ (For dogs only) 5 drops peppermint or eucalyptus oil
👉 Directions: Combine ingredients in a spray bottle, shake well, and apply before outdoor activities. Always use high-quality, pet-safe essential oils.
🔹 Frequent Flea Combing – A flea comb is a simple yet effective tool, especially after hikes or outdoor adventures. It’s great for catching ticks before they attach!
🔹 Botanical Shampoos – Keep up with the essential oils during bath time to help repel pests. I like 4-Legger, Wondercide, and CBD Dog Health shampoos for their natural, non-toxic ingredients.
🔹 Flea & Tick Collars for Outdoor Time – Wondercide makes a peppermint flea collar that I sometimes use on my dogs while they’re outside. However, the scent is strong, so I take it off once they come inside. Do not use this on cats. The peppermint is far to strong for them.
🔹 Flea & Tick Repellent Tags – For my working dogs, who spend a lot of time in the woods, I’ve had success using FleasGone Flea & Tick Tag.
🌀 Apple Cider Vinegar Spray – Mix equal parts ACV and water for a simple, acidic repellent. Spray on their coat, avoiding the eyes.
🦠 Diatomaceous Earth – Food-grade DE dehydrates fleas and ticks on contact. If you have an infestation, you can sprinkle this on the carpets and furniture, let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum it up. Avoid breathing in the power. That goes for you and your pets!
🌱 Neem Oil – A powerful, natural insecticide that prevents ticks from latching onto fur/skin. It has a really strong smell and it’s not safe for pets to digest, but if you have an infestation this is a good option. Dilution is key. Let me know if you need guidance on using this.
🦟 Tickless Ultrasonic Device – A wearable, chemical-free option that emits ultrasonic pulses to repel ticks.
Environmental Allergies & Flea Bite Reactions
If a pet has environmental allergies (which are common this time of year) or reacts to flea bites, I like to use Quercetin, Nature’s Benadryl, to help reduce inflammation and itching.
👉 Here’s the product I like: HistaPaws
Dosage:
🔸 Up to 25 lbs – ½ to 1 capsule, 2-4 times daily
🔸 26-50 lbs – 1 to 2 capsules, 2-4 times daily
🔸 50-75 lbs – 2 to 3 capsules, 2-4 times daily
Why Go Natural?
✔ No exposure to harmful chemicals
✔ Fewer side effects (no skin irritation, neurological issues, or digestive upset)
✔ Better for the environment
✔ More cost-effective in the long run
✔ Peace of mind knowing exactly what’s on your pet
Want to customize a holistic flea & tick prevention plan for your pet? Let’s chat. I’d love to help! 🐾✨
Quick Reference: My Favorite Flea & Tick Solutions
For those looking for trusted, effective natural options, here’s a list of my go-to products:
Wondercide Flea & Tick Spray – Essential oil-based repellent for dogs, cats, and home use https://tidd.ly/41xHJyI
CBD Dog Health Groom Spray - Essential oil and hemp blend repels fleas and ticks while also soothing the skin https://shrsl.com/4v5zp
Two Crazy Cat Ladies - Flea-Ex https://twocrazycatladies.com/shop/cat-health/flea-ex-natural-flea-treatment-cats/ref/calmingcreek/
🔹 Collars & Tags
Wondercide Flea & Tick Collar – Infused with essential oils (for dogs only) https://tidd.ly/4iQ8DZW
Fleabe Gone Tag – Chemical-free electromagnetic frequency tag https://drruthroberts.com/fleas
Tickless Ultrasonic Device – Wearable, pesticide-free tick deterrent
🔹 Shampoos & Bath Products
Wondercide Flea & Tick Shampoo – Natural, plant-based formula https://tidd.ly/4iQ8Tbm
CBD Dog Health Shampoo – Soothing and repellent properties https://shrsl.com/4v5zq
4-Legger Organic Dog Shampoo – USDA-certified organic with essential oils
🔹 Dietary Supplements
Fresh Garlic – Supports natural pest resistance (in safe, appropriate amounts)
Quercetin – Helps reduce flea bite irritation and allergy-related itching https://drruthroberts.com/histapawz
BEAM Minerals - Minerals and electrolytes boost the immune system and overall health https://www.beamminerals.com/collections/pets
🔹 Environmental Protection
Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth – Dehydrates fleas and ticks in bedding and outdoor areas
Wondercide Yard Spray – Hose attachment for easy perimeter application https://tidd.ly/4iih0xf
🔹 Itchy Skin and Bites
CBD Dog Health Soothe Salve – Dehydrates fleas and ticks in bedding and outdoor areas For Cats and For Dogs
Miracle Clay - Bentonite clay. I like the tube (premixed) or the small bag you can mix up a small amount in a jar for your medicine cabinet. https://dynamitespecialty.myvoffice.com/ShoppingCart/index.cfm?FuseAction=CategoryShop&CategoryID=38&OWNERID=5346
BEAM Boo Boo Lytes - Spray on minerals great for bug bites and minor abrasions.
🔹 Essential Oils
Aromatics International - https://www.aromatics.com/calmingcreek
A layered approach is key! Choose a few methods from this list and reapply as needed to keep your pets naturally protected. 🐾✨
Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. I am not a veterinarian, and my services are intended as a complementary practice to support your pet’s overall well-being. They are not a substitute for professional veterinary care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian regarding any medical concerns, conditions, or treatments your pet may require.
My name is Melissa, and I bring to you these insights as a certified holistic pet health coach, pet nutritionist, canine herbalist, animal communicator, Reiki Master and animal energy healer, allowing me to provide holistic solutions for our four-legged friends. I reside on a farm sanctuary surrounded by animals, including seven dogs and four cats.
Thank you for taking the time to explore ways to enhance the quality of life for your furry companions. I hope my tips and recommendations prove invaluable to both you and your beloved pets. For more information and to discover how I can assist you further, please visit my website at calmingcreek.com.
I'd love to hear from you! Whether you have stories to share or questions to ask, don't hesitate to join the conversation in the comments section below.
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