As the warmer months approach, many pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for more time spent outdoors. However, with the great outdoors come unwanted pests like fleas and ticks, which can be a nuisance for humans and their furry companions. While chemical-based repellents are commonly used, there are natural alternatives that can help keep these pests at bay. One such alternative is using plants that naturally repel fleas and ticks.
1. Lavender
Lavender is a natural flea and tick repellent. These insects are repelled by the strong fragrance of lavender, making them an excellent choice for gardens or indoor pots. Planting lavender in one’s garden or outdoor sitting areas can deter fleas and ticks from bothering inhabitants and their pets.
2. Rosemary
This versatile herb acts as a natural pest repellent; its aromatic scent acts as a deterrent to fleas and ticks. One can plant rosemary in their garden or create a natural spray by boiling rosemary leaves and using the infused water as a pet-friendly flea and tick repellent.
3. Mint
Like peppermint and spearmint, mint plants emit a strong scent that fleas and ticks find unpleasant. Planting mint around one’s garden or patio can help keep these pesky insects away.
4. Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums contain a natural insect repellent called pyrethrin, commonly used in commercial flea and tick products. Planting chrysanthemums in one’s garden can help keep these pests away from outdoor spaces.
5. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is another natural plant that repels fleas and ticks effectively. Its lemony scent is pleasant for humans but not for these insects. Planting lemongrass around the yard or patio can create a natural barrier against fleas and ticks.
6. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus trees and plants contain essential oils known to repel fleas and ticks. One can plant eucalyptus trees or shrubs in one’s yard to help keep these pests away.
While growing the plants mentioned above may help prevent fleas and ticks from causing havoc at home, pets may require treatment in case of severe attacks by ticks or fleas. Thus, doctors recommend certain medications to treat existing infestations and prevent further attacks. For example, Simparica Trio and NexGard are chewables that protect pets against fleas and ticks. Certain topical treatments for ticks and fleas include FRONTLINE Plus, Advantage II, and K9 Advantix II. Oral treatments like Trifexis may also help with the issue.
