Fleas on cats can be one of the most frustrating things to deal with as a cat owner. They can make your cat scratch and bite uncontrollably, causing sores, infections, and even emotional distress over their discomfort. Some fleas are also carriers of tapeworms and other parasites, which can have serious side effects in cats and even humans if ingested by humans. While you should always consult your veterinarian about fleas on cats, here are 15 home remedies to get rid of fleas on cats fast so that you can spend more time enjoying your feline friend instead of dealing with flea-infested fur!
1) Salt
Salt is one of the most common home remedies used for flea infestations. The salt will dehydrate the flea, killing it in a few hours. Make a thick paste by combining two cups of salt with two cups of water. Apply the mixture over your cat's coat, concentrating on areas where he's been scratching or licking himself excessively.
2) Baking Soda
Baking soda is a great way to get rid of fleas. There are two ways in which it can be used: by sprinkling it into the cat's fur, or by sprinkling it onto a cloth and then wiping down your cat with it. Either way, baking soda will dry out the flea eggs and larvae, which should cause them to die off in about three weeks.
3) Lemon
One way to get rid of fleas is by using a lemon. Make sure you wash your hands before and after the process. Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice onto your cat's fur. Rub it all over their body, including around the ears, neck, tail, and hindquarters. Use a cloth or paper towel to wipe off any excess liquid from their fur. Let it sit for 5 minutes and then rinse thoroughly with cool water.
4) Vinegar
Vinegar is a great way to get rid of fleas on cats. Just mix the vinegar with water in a spray bottle and spritz the mixture all over your cat, then brush it through its fur. You can also soak them in a bathtub filled with the mixture for 10-15 minutes. Vinegar will kill fleas and their eggs, and leave your cat smelling fresh!
5) Rosemary
Rosemary is a powerful herb that has been used for centuries as a natural flea repellent. It works by masking the smell of cats and their surroundings, which in turn keeps fleas away. You can try sprinkling dried rosemary leaves around your cat's bedding, or making a fresh leaf or two into a tea with boiling water and giving it to your cat before they go out for the day.
6) Cedar
.webp "Home Remedies to Get Rid of Fleas on Cats")
Cedar smells great and is natural, so you can use it as a home remedy for fleas on cats. Mix a few drops of cedar essential oil with water, then spray it all over the area where your cat spends most of his time. The smell will keep fleas away and your cat will love it!
7) Lavender
Lavender essential oil is a natural flea repellent. You can make your own flea spray by adding two drops of lavender essential oil to a cup of water and then spraying the mixture onto your cat's fur. Lavender also works for calming an anxious pet. Add three drops to a teaspoon of carrier oil (like coconut or olive) and rub it onto your pet's paws, behind the ears, and at the base of the tail.
8) Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a natural insecticide that is also an essential oil. This makes it a great option for getting rid of flea infestations without using harmful chemicals. You can add some drops to your cat's water bowl or put some drops onto their paws before they go outside. It is especially effective at repelling and killing fleas when combined with other essential oils, such as lavender or lemongrass.
9) Tea Tree
Tea tree oil is not only a natural flea repellent but also an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory that kills bacteria. Put some in your cat's bedding or spray it around the house. You can also use a tea tree as a flea dip for your pet by diluting it with water before applying it to the coat. Be sure not to put too much tea tree oil on their skin or fur, as this can cause irritation.
10) Citronella
Citronella is one home remedy for fleas on cats that have been used for centuries. Citronella oil is extracted from the plant and can be used as a natural insect repellant. The scent will keep away bugs like mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks. To use citronella as a cat deterrent, mix a teaspoon of oil with 1 quart (32 ounces) of water in a spray bottle, then shake well before each use.
11) Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a natural flea killer and can be made into a spray or tea with ease. All you need is half a cup of fresh lemongrass and one-quart water. Boil the water and add the lemongrass, then let it simmer for five minutes before turning off the stove. Allow it to cool down before straining and use it as needed, either as an insecticide or tea. Lemongrass is also safe for cats!
12) Clove
Cloves are a great way to get rid of fleas and ticks on cats. Place a few whole cloves in a pot, pour boiling water into the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Put some cotton balls or small squares of cloth in the pot and then leave them there overnight. In the morning, take out the cotton balls or clothes from the pot, place them inside a plastic bag (so they don't dry out), and then tie them up tight before putting them away.
13) Dish Soap
One way to get rid of fleas fast is by using dish soap. Simply mix a teaspoon of dish soap with three cups of water and gently pour this mixture over your cat's fur. Rinse off any suds with a garden hose or in the shower and then use a comb to remove any dead flea eggs and larvae from the hair. Remember that dish soap can dry out your cat's skin, so don't leave them in wet clothes for more than 15 minutes.
14) Grapefruit
Grapefruit is one of the best home remedies for flea control. The reason why it works is that grapefruit leaves contain a chemical called d-limonene, which kills fleas on contact. You can rub fresh grapefruit leaves all over your cat, or you can make a concoction by boiling two cups of water, adding a few slices of fresh grapefruit peel, and letting it steep for about 10 minutes.
15) Neem
Neem is a natural insecticide that is very effective against fleas on cats. You can make neem oil by boiling 1-2 tbsp. of neem leaves in 1 cup of water, straining it, and then adding it to 1⁄2 cup olive oil or coconut oil. Rub this mixture onto your cat’s skin, concentrating around the neck and lower abdomen.
Conclusion
If your cat has a flea infestation, don't despair. There are a number of home remedies that can help you get rid of fleas on cats quickly and effectively. Many of these remedies use common household items that you probably already have on hand, so they're easy to implement. With a little bit of effort, you can eliminate the fleas from your cat's fur and keep them from coming back. Try out one or more of these home remedies and see which works best for you and your feline friend.