Essential Oils To Repel Fleas

Fleas are a common problem for many pet owners. Not only are fleas bothersome to your cat or dog, but they can also take up residence in the woodwork and textiles in your home. Without intervention, your home may become infested in a short amount of time. Fortunately, certain essential oils repel fleas. However, side effects may occur, especially in small or very young animals. Consult a holistic veterinarian experienced in the use of essential oils before using them on your pet or in your pet's environment.

Catnip

Catnip, also known as catmint, is a member of the Nepeta genus of more than 250 flowering species of plants. If you've ever shared your home with a feline companion, then you have probably become acquainted with this herb since it's often used as stuffing in various cat toys. Nepetalactone, the active ingredient in catnip essential oil, is responsible for exciting pheromonic receptors in the animal's olfactory epithelium of the nasal cavity, which triggers the typical euphoric reaction. This substance is also an extremely effective insect repellent. In fact, according to a 2001 press release issued by Iowa State University, nepetalactone is 10 times more effective at repelling insects than diethyl-meta-toluamide, or DEET, the chemical found in many commercial formulas. In addition to deterring fleas, catnip essential oil repels mosquitoes, cockroaches and, according to the United States Department of Agriculture, termites.

Neem

Neem oil is extracted from the seeds of Azadirachta indica, a tropical, evergreen tree native to India. The oil contains several active compounds, mostly steroids, triterpenoids and fatty acids. Collectively, these chemicals repel a variety of insects by acting as anti-feedants, growth inhibitors, larvicides, sterilants and, in some cases, neurotoxins. Azadirachtin, the primary active ingredient in neem oil, is reputedly effective against fleas, ticks, ants, houseflies, bedbugs, termites, mosquitoes and cockroaches, as well as numerous pests that damage agricultural crops such as white flies, cabbage worms and aphids.

Citronella

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, citronella oil has been used for decades in many commercial products made to repel various biting insects, including fleas. In fact, citronella oil is a common ingredient in many lotions, sprays, candles, towelette wipes and solid rub-on products designed for this purpose. The oil has been registered as a biopesticide with the EPA since 1948, which means that its mechanism of action does not involve toxicity. Instead, the strong odor of the oil may impair the insect's ability to target a potential host, at least temporarily.