5 Natural Ways to Protect Your Pet from Fleas & Ticks
Chemical flea and tick preventives can sometimes do more harm than good — especially for sensitive pets. Luckily, there are safe, effective, and natural ways to keep your pet protected without harsh chemicals or pesticides.
Here are five simple steps to help you naturally prevent fleas and ticks all year long.
1. Maintain Your Yard Naturally
Your first line of defense starts right outside your door. Fleas and ticks love tall grass, leaf piles, and shaded, overgrown areas.
- Keep grass short and bushes trimmed to reduce hiding spots.
- Clear away leaf litter and debris where pests thrive.
- Apply food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) along fences, shady spots, and pet play areas. DE is a natural powder that dehydrates and kills parasites on contact — without toxic residues.
Just be sure to use food-grade DE and apply when the ground is dry.
2. Add Garlic to the Diet (in Safe Amounts)
When used correctly, fresh garlic can help make your pet’s blood less appealing to fleas and ticks. Garlic contains sulfur compounds that are excreted through the skin, creating a natural barrier.
A small amount, a few times a week, can be beneficial — but it’s important to consult your veterinarian for safe dosing, especially for cats or smaller dogs.
Pro tip: Choose organic garlic and crush or chop it fresh to release the beneficial compounds (allicin).
3. Use Natural Topical Sprays
A natural repellent spray is a great addition to your flea and tick prevention plan. Look for blends made with essential oils known for their insect-repelling properties — like myrrh, geranium, citronella, lavender, and neem.
Our own “Bugger Off” Spray is made with a blend of herbs and botanicals designed to deter pests while being gentle on your pet’s skin and coat. Mist it on before walks, hikes, or playtime outdoors — and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with chemical-free protection.
Reminder - essential oil topicals are only safe for dogs, not cats!
4. Check Your Pet Regularly
Even with great prevention, it’s still important to check your pet often. A quick daily once-over can catch ticks before they attach or fleas before they spread.
- Use a flea comb or tick mitt to brush through the coat.
- Pay attention to hidden spots — under the collar, armpits, groin, and between toes.
- If you find a tick, remove it promptly with a tick remover.
Making tick checks part of your daily routine is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your pet. Don't forget to check yourself as well!
5. Explore Other Natural Devices
There are several innovative, non-chemical flea and tick prevention devices now available — such as ultrasonic collarsand herbal tags. These work by emitting subtle frequencies or natural scents that deter pests, and while results can vary, many pet parents find them helpful as part of a holistic prevention plan.
They’re safe, non-invasive, and a great add-on for pets who can’t tolerate conventional preventives.
The Bottom Line
Keeping fleas and ticks away doesn’t have to mean reaching for harsh chemicals. By combining a few simple habits — maintaining your yard, supporting your pet’s diet, using natural sprays, and staying consistent with checks — you can protect your pet the gentle, holistic way.
0 comments