10/25/2025
WINTER FLEA WARNING - every one talks about fleas being rampant in summer, but did you know they can also be rampant in your home in winter? Like most of God’s creatures fleas know winter is around the corner. They want a nice cozy place to live just like we do. Here’s a few plants that can repel ticks and fleas from your pup, home or yard set up, so they don’t settle in for a long, snuggly, winter...Because Who Needs Those Unwelcome Guests?
Herbs that can help repel fleas include mint, lavender, rosemary, and catnip, or any mixture of set herbs. You can put these between the shoulder blades and hips on your fur baby skin or grow these in your home or yard. I use them to create natural remedies, such as a rosemary flea wash for dogs, but be cautious with certain herbs like pennyroyal, which is toxic to cats. Don't worry, we've got the scoop on which herbs are safe for your furry friends.
Herbs to repel fleas
Mint: Mint, including spearmint and peppermint, is known to repel insects and fleas. Because mint can spread aggressively, it's often best to plant it in containers to control its growth. Think of it like a flea-repelling ninja - sneaky and effective.
Rosemary: This herb can repel fleas and is also a common ingredient in natural flea rinses and washes for dogs, though some dogs may have sensitivities.
Lavender: In addition to its pleasant scent and many uses, lavender can repel fleas and attract beneficial insects to your garden. It's like a win-win for your home, yard and your nose.
Catnip: This plant can repel fleas, and while it's well-known for its effects on cats, it's also safe for dogs. Who knew catnip could be a dog's best friend too?
Thyme: Scientific studies have shown that the scent of thyme is effective at repelling fleas. Thyme to get planting?
Wormwood: This is another herb that can be used to help repel fleas and ticks.
Neem: Neem oil is a highly effective herbal flea repellent that is safe for use on both dogs and cats when diluted correctly. It's like a natural superhero for your pets.
Pennyroyal: Pennyroyal can be used to repel fleas, but it is highly toxic to cats and should not be planted where they can access it. So, if you're a cat owner, just pretend you didn't read that.
How to use these herbs
Plant them in your yard: Place these herbs in areas where pets frequent, near entrances, or around the foundation of your home to help create a natural flea barrier. It's like building a force field for your yard.
Make a flea wash: Steep fresh or dried rosemary in boiling water for 10 minutes, strain, cool, and use as a final rinse for a dog after their bath. Your dog will thank you, or at least not complain as much.
Use a flea spray: You can make a flea spray using peppermint oil by adding a few drops to a bucket of warm water and dipping a flea comb into the solution before combing your pet's coat. It's like a refreshing spa day for your pet.
Create a carpet refresher: Dry and crumble herbs like rosemary, mix them with baking soda or borax, sprinkle on carpets, let sit, and then vacuum. Your carpets will thank you, and so will your nose.
Apply a rinse: For dogs, you can use a rosemary dip by soaking the leaves in boiling water, straining, and diluting with warm water to create a flea-repellent rinse. Just don't try to drink it - trust me on that one. Yuck!
Important considerations
Keep pets from ingesting: Avoid using herbs that are toxic to specific pets, such as pennyroyal for cats. Always confirm that any remedy is safe for your pet before use. Don't be that guy who accidentally poisons his pet.
Consult your veterinarian: Always consult with your veterinarian before using new treatments, especially if your pet has any health concerns or open wounds. Your vet will appreciate your diligence, and so will your pet
