Fleas and ticks are to dogs and cats what lice are to humans: irritating and disease-carrying. These parasites hide in pets’ fur coats and suck blood and nutrients, causing anemia, allergies, and other skin conditions. Ticks also spread bacterial infections, one of the most dangerous of which is Lyme disease. For pet parents who prefer organic solutions, discussed herein are some of the best essential oils and natural treatments for ticks and fleas.

1. Essential Oils
Essential oils repel fleas and ticks, reduce itching and scratching caused by the parasite bites, and hasten the healing process. Mix five to six drops of the oil in 100 ml of water, spray on your pet’s coat, and rub the oil in. These oils are quite effective:

• Basil Oil
  Basil oil is perhaps one of the best essential oils for flea relief. It not only relieves your dogs from insects but can also act as a repellent for other insects in your home. Beware that your dog does not lick much of it. And since this oil is rich in phenols, you should not use it on cats.
• Lavender Oil
  The soothing effects of lavender are not limited to humans. Animals, too, experience stress and anxiety, and lavender oil relaxes them. It wards off fleas and also supports skin and coat health in cats and dogs. Dilute it with a carrier, like almond or coconut oil, and apply it on your pet’s back where the fur is most thick and at the base of their tail.
• Rosemary Oil
  Another excellent choice for repelling fleas naturally is rosemary oil. For cats and dogs alike, you can use the oil to remove the parasites and heal the bites they leave behind. However, use it sparingly as excessive usage of this potent oil can sting your furry friend’s skin.

2. Home Remedies
If essential oils are too laborious for your liking, here are some other remedies for fleas that you can try.

• Lemon
  Lemon concentrate, abundant in citric acid, is the best flea killer you can make at home. Cut a lemon in two, boil the parts in water, switch off the flame, and allow the fruit to soak in it for a few hours to make a strong solution. You can spray this on cats and dogs. Keep the solution away from their eyes and do a patch test on their skin first to make sure you are not triggering more irritation. For cats, you can dip a comb in this solution and brush the fleas out.
• Baking Soda
  Pet parents who are bakers might love the versatility of baking soda. Mix a little soda with water, make it a pliable paste and rub it on your pet’s skin. Allow it to permeate for half an hour before washing it off. Baking soda also helps to keep your home clean. Vacuum your floors first, sprinkle baking soda on carpets, mats, and furnishings. Finally, use a stiff brush and rub away the powder thoroughly.