How to get rid of fleas on cats: Flea treatment for cats – The Ultimate Guide

How to get rid of fleas on cats is a problem that has been with us for as long as humans and cats have lived together. But with centuries of experience, finding the perfect flea treatment for your cat is still confusing. The Internet is rife with conflicting and misleading information about how to get rid of fleas on cats. So, I wrote this guide to save all of you the confusion.

After months of questions and consultation with veterinarians, I have come up with a list of the current prescription medicines, as well as over-the-counter flea treatments for cats and home remedies for cat flea treatment.

Skip to Home Remedies or Skip to Flea Medicine

Table of Contents

Flea Medicines vs Home Remedies
How to Tell If Your Cat Has Fleas
Why do you need Cat Flea Treatments
Flea Life Cycle: How long do fleas live
How Long Does It Take To Break The Flea Life Cycle
How To Get Rid of Fleas on Cats
Multiple Cat Flea Treatments and Flea Repellants
Flea Medicine for Cats
Side Effects of Pharmaceutical Flea Medicine
List of Home Remedies for Fleas on Cats
Long Term Flea Control

Flea Medicines vs Home Remedies

This comprehensive collection of medications and home remedies for both flea control for cats and killing flea eggs on cats – and throughout your home – will make life safer and calmer for your precious fur child as well as for you.

This guide for how to get rid of fleas on cats offers you a complete understanding of all these ingredients and products. I also provide a review of what, if any, side effects or toxic symptoms your cat may experience.

How to Tell If Your Cat Has Fleas

Important note: Veteranarians consistently point out that the healthier your cat’s immune system is, the easier it is for them to withstand and avoid a flea outbreak. So keep in mind that high-quality food, access to clean water, exercise, a clean environment, and minimizing the time your cat spends outdoors, all increase the likelihood that you and kitty will remain free from living with a flea problem.

In other words, the best solution for how to get rid of fleas on cats is to avoid the problem before it begins. Many of these solutions can also be used to prevent a problem from ever occurring.

If you think your cat has fleas, you have likely observed some of these typical symptoms:

• Constant grooming or grooming much more frequently than normal
• Tiny black specks moving in and out of your cat’s fur
• Tiny black specks hopping or moving about in your cat’s bedding
• Patch or patches with gaps in the hair or missing fur or a balding appearance
• Red or irritated or crusty bumpy skin (often on the back or neck)
• Intense scratching, constant itching, or licking of themselves
• An increase in hairballs (grooming and licking increase hairball formation)
• Low energy, lethargy, and pale gums (symptoms of flea caused anemia)

If you’ve noticed any or all of these symptoms, you want your fur buddy to feel better, and you don’t want to infect other animals (or your family) in your home.

Why do you need Cat Flea Treatments?

Fleas are pests, but more than that, they are harbingers of disease. Fleas are bloodsuckers. Their bites can carry blood-borne pathogens that spread diseases -even  life-threatening diseases – to both you and your cat (i.e., tapeworms, Bubonic plague, Lyme disease, murine typhus, cat scratch disease (CSD), and heartworm.)

And while we think of them as seasonal, fleas are not restricted to one time of year. They are with us year-round. And while what most often comes to mind is that their bites create persistent itching, red welts, and relentless discomfort, more critical is the possible long-term illnesses their bites can transmit.

The CDC has amplified this issue recently by publishing two significant facts:

• Climate change is extending flea and tick season – Fleas and ticks thrive in warm weather. So, the hotter the planet becomes, the longer the active season for fleas and ticks will be. Naturally, this means dormant periods of flea and tick activity will shorten.
• The CDC also warns that with the evolving warmth and humidity of the planet, fleas and ticks will continue to expand into territories they used to avoid. The extension of locations where fleas and ticks can comfortably thrive will bring more significant amounts of fleas and ticks to areas where they have not been prevalent before and with them more frequent outbreaks of flea and tick-borne diseases in the regions that have not known them before. 

Flea Life Cycle: How long do fleas live

Most fleas have four life stages: egg, larva, pupa (in a cocoon), and adult. This diagram shows the typical lifecycle of fleas. The lifecycle of fleas can be rapid or last many months or years, depending on the environmental conditions throughout the life stages.

How long does it take to break the flea life cycle?

It takes at least one or two months to ensure all the life cycle stages have run through their paces. Until then, you might still see adult fleas now and then, but their days are numbered as long as treatment continues without a break.

Help your pet break the flea life cycle with a flea treatment. Start by cleaning the house thoroughly on the same day you will start the treatment(s). Wash all your pet’s bedding at both a high water temperature and a high dryer heat setting. Thoroughly vacuum your carpets and furniture to remove eggs, larvae, and pupae and discard the vacuum cleaner bag in a trash bag or can that remains outside.

How To Get Rid of Fleas on Cats

The pet health industry has focused on creating cat and dog flea treatments. But, there are far more flea treatments for dogs than for cats. With that said, there are still a significant number of cat flea treatments. In total, are currently over 20 pharmaceutically developed chemical cat flea treatments. Some of those are prescription cat flea treatments, while others are over-the-counter flea treatments for cats.

But recently, many pet owners have been searching for alternatives to pharmaceuticals and insecticides because of the well-documented side effects of these aggressive pesticides (which I have listed below for each insecticide.) Natural remedies are being discussed more frequently. But just because something is natural, that does not mean it is safe.

There is a wide array of non-pharmaceutical household products that act as home remedies for fleas. These can offer relief and assistance to pet owners who want to supplement their cat’s chemical flea treatment or use substances that have fewer or no side effects.

Just a reminder, because your cat is an individual with unique requirements, I recommend you always check with your veterinarian before trying a new flea treatment or remedy for your cat.

Multiple Cat Flea Treatments and Flea Repellants

The first section below will lay out the broad swath of over twenty pharmaceutically developed chemical cat flea treatments and the over-the-counter pharmaceutically developed products. These products come in various methods and products for use.

• Medications
• Shampoos
• Dips
• Sprays
• Collars

I will also address the documented side effects that can occur with each flea treatment for cats.

The second section details an expansive list of natural home remedies many cat owners use to get rid of fleas on cats. Also, this section will discuss any known side effects of the various treatments.

I am very cautious in this section because there are so many natural remedies, predominantly plants, that Internet sites recommend for deterring or killing fleas as if they are safe for all pets. But many of the items mentioned in the articles I have researched might be safe for dogs, but they are not safe for cats. Cats are not small dogs! Just because they are pets and have four legs does not mean the same things are safe for these different animal species.

Often vets will suggest using natural treatments side-by-side with pharmaceutical treatments. The choice for your cat belongs to you. Still, again I remind you that every animal is unique and has different needs and various sensitivities so consult your vet before managing any health issue on your own.

Flea Medicines for Cats

This list contains the primary pharmaceutical brand remedies for fleas on cats. Each brand is linked to its corresponding listing on Drugs.com where you will find complete information. In some cases the link will take you to the manufacturers website which has incomplete information. In other cases the listed brand is a generic equivalent of an older brand. Always consult your veterinarian before using any flea medicine on your cat.

Below the list, I provide the most common toxic side effects of these chemical remedies.

Important Note: Dosage is critically important to your cat’s tolerance of ANY of these chemical flea deterrents.  One of the most common causes of toxicity from flea treatments is pet owners using dog treatments on their cats and, therefore, overdosing the cat. Do not be tempted to buy a larger “dog-sized” quantity with the intention of dividing it up into “cat-sized” doses. The different formulations used for dogs may cause irreversible harm to your cat.

Side Effects of Pharmaceutical Flea Medicine

This list includes the major drug classes and the symptoms of toxicity. For additional information about how the drugs work and how they impact your pet and you, click on the links at the bottom of the page.

Neonicotinoids

(click for pharmaceutical information)

Neonicotinoids include three primary subclasses.  The subclasses have different toxic side effects, so I list them separately:

Dinotefuran (used in spot-on treatments)

(click for pharmaceutical information)

Symptoms appear a few hours after exposure but depend strongly on the formulation, the dose, and the kind of contact (skin, inhalation, ingestion, etc.).  Dinotefuran is slightly irritant to the eyes and the skin but is not considered carcinogenic.  As a general rule, young animals are more sensitive to overdosing and react stronger.

Imidacloprid (used in spot-on treatments)

(click for pharmaceutical information)

Symptoms appear a few hours after exposure but depend strongly on the formulation, the dose, and the kind of contact (skin, inhalation, ingestion, etc.).

Nitenpyram (used in oral treatments)

(click for pharmaceutical information)

As a general rule, young animals are more sensitive to overdosing and react stronger.

Avermectin (topical treatment)

(click for pharmaceutical information)

Chitin Synthesis Inhibitor (oral treatment)

(click for pharmaceutical information)

This class of drug has no impact on adult fleas but interrupts the lifecycle of flea development.  It may take several weeks to have noticeable effects on your pet, and you may need an additional strategy to eliminate adult fleas.

Isoxazoline (topical treatment)

(click for pharmaceutical information)

Oxadiazine (Topical treatment)

(click for pharmaceutical information)

Phenylpyrazole (topical treatment)

(click for pharmaceutical information)

Pyrethroid (Collar treatment)

(click for pharmaceutical information)

List of Home Remedies for Fleas on Cats

In Alphabetical Order

Most of the medicines and pharmaceuticals listed above can have some very significant side effects. To avoid the side effects, many people want to use more natural methods, using more familiar ingredients.

But remember, just because an ingredient comes from nature does not mean it is harmless. For example, garlic is something that we all use and consume in packaged foods or a flavoring we often add to recipes. To humans, it is considered a healthy addition. But to cats, garlic is toxic and must never be used in food or otherwise.

So I am passing along these helpful and practical natural and home remedies, but I advise you always to discuss any new treatments with your vet.

Important note: Avoid using essential oils in any remedy for fleas or as a flea treatment. While there is limited research regarding essential oils and their usage with cats, the ASPCA has stated that essential oils should not be used on pets unless discussed and approved by your veterinarian. Essential oils contain VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). VOCs can cause nose, eye, or throat irritation and cause skin reactions, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. In severe cases, there could be organ damage and cancer. While this is unlikely in an ordinary, careful household, it does illustrate how dangerous these chemicals are for your little fur buddy.

To maximize the effectiveness of these natural remedies, give your home a thorough cleaning and complete vacuuming BEFORE you begin using any flea treatment. Include your upholstery and couch cushions, pet bedding, etc. Empty the contents of the vacuum into a trash can OUTSIDE your home. Also, launder all your cat’s bedding, cloth toys, pillows, etc., in HOT water.

Aloe Vera

You will find aloe vera in many pet shampoos. Please note that you must only use the refined juice and not the thick “milk” inside the leaves. This thick milk is toxic to cats. Simply mix Aloe Vera juice with a bit of lemon juice, cayenne pepper, or both, and you have created a powerful and effective spray flea repellent.

Also, when you bathe your cat, you can put some aloe vera in the bathwater and gently massage the water into your cat’s fur. Aloe vera juice is an excellent conditioning treatment for your cat’s coat.

If your cat has fleas, be prepared because the fleas will try to escape the aloe vera. You will likely have many of them trying to jump on you (suggestion: rub a generous amount of aloe vera on your own skin before you bathe your kitty, and you will find that the fleas are not interested in jumping onto you.)

Apple Cider Vinegar

This is a household ingredient with many possible uses in protecting your cat from fleas. It is a versatile flea treatment for cats. It can destroy flea eggs and larvae, and the smell, which has acetic acid, repels juvenile and adult fleas. Importantly, it will remain active in your environment for 2-4 days. Fleas dislike apple cider vinegar’s intense smell and taste.

Apple cider vinegar will not kill adult fleas, though, only eggs and larvae. It only repels adult fleas, so in itself, it will not cure the problem if your cat already has fleas. It can, however, lessen the number of fleas, and it can keep your cat from getting fleas if it is currently flea-free. Here are some ways you can use apple cider vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar makes your pet’s skin more acidic. Consider adding two drops to a bowl of your pet’s water. This acts as a flea deterrent because the acidic smell and taste of your pet’s skin will be unpleasant to both fleas and ticks.

You can make a spray (use throughout your home, anywhere you know or suspect fleas are hiding)

• Another use for apple cider vinegar is to dip your cat’s flea comb in a combination of apple cider vinegar and water.

• Here is another excellent apple cider vinegar recipe for repelling fleas on your kitty buddy, and again I recommend you have a dish of soapy water handy as above):

Baking Soda

You will find baking soda listed in places as a flea killing agent or a flea repellant – but it has been proven to have NO effect in deterring, repelling, or killing fleas. I include it on this list to let you know not to waste your time, money, or energy trying any of the baking soda flea treatments or recipes you may find on the Internet.

Basil

The search for answers for how to get rid of fleas on cats can largely be answered with one word -Basil. The smell of this plant can make humans want to reach for a delicious meal, but it will cause fleas to race to escape. Basil in your yard will keep fleas away and allow your furry kitty friend the freedom of a yard without pests. But you can also add chopped, ground, or mashed basil to water. Put the liquid into a handy spray bottle and spray it in any area that kitty hangs out or any place you may have spied fleas skulking about.

You can also put this herb in your cat’s bathwater to repel fleas and keep kitty flea-free.

Bath

While this remedy may seem obvious, I have still chosen to include it because it is verifiably effective in repelling, deterring, and killing fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae. It is true that your cat constantly grooms herself, but a regular bath will keep the possibility of a major flea invasion at bay.

Important note: Fleas cannot swim! So this becomes your strongest and most cost-efficient flea killer and flea repellant.

Brewer’s Yeast

This home remedy has fallen in and out of favor over the last 80 years. It has long been a home remedy for fleas, but in the 1980s, research disputed its efficacy. More recent discussions from veterinarians have once again placed it in the ‘effective’ category for repelling fleas.

There are all kinds of benefits to Brewer’s Yeast other than acting as a flea repellant. For example, Brewer’s Yeast is high in B vitamins, namely, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, and B9. It is also high in antioxidants. Brewer’s yeast is also high in selenium, potassium, chromium, iron, zinc, and magnesium. These minerals are essential for a variety of cell and organ functions as well as overall good health. But an important consideration to take into account is that brewer’s yeast does not contain B12, a necessary vitamin found in animal products. But your cat may be getting plenty of B12 in their standard diet.

Brewer’s yeast promotes healthy skin, eyes, hair, and liver function in both humans and pets. A bonus is that the high levels of B vitamins may reduce anxiety in cats.

The recommended dose of 1 tsp. of brewer’s yeast per day for your cat. If you’re using a commercial tablet or liquid, follow the dosing instructions on the package. You can find brewer’s yeast in powdered, liquid, or tablet form. You can sprinkle it into your cat’s food and mix well. Many people report that their cats seem to like the taste of brewer’s yeast.

Important note: some cats are allergic to brewer’s yeast. If your cat starts scratching or showing other signs of an allergic reaction, it is recommended you stop giving it to your four-legged buddy.

Catnip

We all think of catnip as a cat elixir of joy, but the good news is it can serve as an effective flea repellant, too. Growing in your yard, it will act as a flea deterrent, and it will be handy to cut off a few leaves and place them on your cat’s bed or in any of the places that your cat likes to lay. The fleas will stay far away from any of the areas catnip is present. Putting these bits of catnip throughout the house will also cause your cat to spend much time in their personal Nirvana. It sounds like a choice everyone but the fleas will love.

Cedar Chips and Oil

The flea-killing properties of cedar are long-known and accurate. It is most commonly available as chips and oils.

Chips -Cedar chips come in many sizes, from the large mulch pieces you can spread out in your yard down to the small sachets you can put in your drawers and cabinets.

Cedar chips in your yard will completely eradicate those pesky unwanted fleas. Consider sprinkling some cedar chips directly on your kitty’s bedding. It will be relaxing for your fur honey and toxic to fleas.

Oil – This is a remedy with a warning attached to it. Above, I discussed that essential oils can be toxic to cats because they usually contain VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). But even if you get cedar oil without VOCs, it is still not safe to use on your cat unless it is also phenol-free. Phenol is toxic to cats. If you locate a cedar oil free of VOCs and phenol, it would be safe to use on your cat.

To get rid of fleas on cats, you can lightly spray the cedar oil directly on your cat’s coat or comb it through. Or, for more continuing protection, you can get an untreated flea collar and spread several drops over the collar. The flea-killing properties will last for several months, and the flea repelling properties will last until you start noticing the aroma going away.

Chamomile

This one is quite simple and a bit fun! Chamomile is a natural flea repellant. One option is to grow it in your yard or as a lovely houseplant. But here’s a suggestion with a bit of relaxation attached to it: Make some tea for you and your kitty. You can drink yours but spray kitty’s cuppa right on her coat. Seriously! Let the tea steep (overnight is best), then pour it into a spray bottle and enjoy giving kitty a little spray bottle shower. You’ll both have a luxurious and restful afternoon!

Important note: Another reason the steeped tea in a spray bottle is a great idea is that you must always use chamomile in a diluted form as too much, such as directly ingesting the plant, can have adverse side effects. But a diluted solution sprayed on their fur is a perfect delivery system without adverse effects.

Chrysanthemums

Here is another one I am listing only to warn you that, despite being on many lists for killing fleas, it is NOT something you want to use around cats. Chrysanthemum kills fleas and other insects because it affects them as a neurotoxin. This is clearly not the answer for how to get rid of fleas on cats.

In other words, it destroys and breaks down elements of the flea’s central nervous system. The mum plant also contains several substances that are toxic to cats, including lactones, pyrethrins, and sesquiterpene. The symptoms it can produce when the flower or its oil is ingested are vomiting, diarrhea, loss of balance, loss of coordination, drooling, and severe itching. So once again, even though you will see it on the Internet as a flea killer, that does not mean it is safe for cats.

Coconut Oil

This one is a favorite go-to for how to get rid of fleas on cats because it is so simple, and the results are so dramatic. Coconut oil has been demonstrated to have many practical and healing uses. For example, Dr. Anna Gardner, a holistic veterinarian in Washington, says, “Externally, coconut oil can help with allergies, dry skin, itchiness, and overall coat health. Internally, coconut oil can benefit a cat’s immune system, help with hairballs, reduce arthritis inflammation, improve bad breath, and help with a healthy stomach.”

But best of all, coconut oil is a natural flea killer and repellant, thanks to the lauric acid naturally occurring in it. Lauric acid is anti-parasitic and, coupled with the high-fat content of coconut oil, effectively suffocates fleas.

Simply bathe your cat buddy, then apply the coconut oil to both skin and fur. Wait a few hours and rinse the oil away. Be prepared for all the dead fleas that wash out. This is a highly effective treatment, and kitty will benefit from grooming any remaining coconut oil off his coat.

Important note: Above, you will find the caution about avoiding essential oils because of their toxic-to-cat ingredients, but this is not the case with coconut oil. Coconut oil is not an essential oil. The oil from the coconut is pressed directly from the coconut fruit.

Cumin

A small amount, no more than a quarter of a teaspoon of cumin, added to your cat’s food once daily will deter fleas. The smell of your cat’s skin after consuming cumin will be unpleasant to fleas but not noticeable to the human senses.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is finely ground fossilized algae, specifically dead diatoms. These coral-like substances, once ground up, create a powder that has microscopic sharp edges. So as fleas or other insects crawl over it, the sharp edges slice into the flea’s hard outer shell and open it up.  The diatomaceous earth crystals act like salt, drying the insect out, dehydrating them, and killing them. 

You can liberally sprinkle diatomaceous earth on the ground outside, in your yard, on your walkways, and on porches. When using it Inside, you can sprinkle it on your carpet and work it into the fibers with a broom or brush. Let it stay there for two days, then vacuum it up. You will also be vacuuming up hordes of dead and dying fleas. Remember to dump the contents of the vacuum in a waste bin outside.

Diatomaceous earth can be safe for both humans and pets, and it is incredibly effective. But there are several caveats.

1. Be sure only to buy the food-grade type of diatomaceous earth.
2. Though many sites will tell you that it is safe to breathe, it is not. For your safety, wear a mask when sprinkling it in your desired locations so that you do not accidentally inhale it. And please remove your pets from the room during the process.
3. Though many sites suggest you apply it directly to your cat’s skin and fur, please do not do this until you have discussed it with your vet. It is very easy to dry your cat’s skin and cause abrasions, rashes, or sores if you rub it directly onto your cat’s skin.

In the end, diatomaceous earth is very effective in killing fleas if used appropriately. It is a powerful ally in your effort to get rid of fleas on cats.

Dish Soap

This is a remedy you likely have sitting in your cabinet. Research has found that even the mildest dish soaps are highly effective in killing fleas. Dish soap can be used in several ways.

Vets do not recommend that you bathe your cat with dish soap for a couple of reasons. One, it can be too harsh and irritate their skin. Another reason is that the soap does not stop the flea life cycle. It does not act as a repellant and does not deter fleas. But it will kill fleas that encounter it. The dish soap acts like glue. Once the flea has the dish soap on its body, it cannot free itself.

Dr. Chris Reeder, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist with BluePearl Pet Hospital in Franklin, Tennessee, explains, “fleas have exoskeletons that allow them to float in water.” Dish soap “creates a kind of surfactant, or surface tension, that will compromise (and soften) the exoskeleton and make adult fleas sink,” he says. So basically, the soap drowns the fleas. But you can dip a flea comb in soapy water and run in through your kitty’s fur and then dip the flea-laden comb in the soapy water, rinsing off the dead and dying fleas. Just rinse and repeat.

The other way you can use dish soap is to place a shallow bowl of soapy water near a location where you have seen or believe you have fleas, turn on a night light next to the bowl (light attracts fleas), and check in the morning. You will find yourself with a bowlful of dead fleas.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is toxic to cats if they eat it. Therefore, the best and safest way to use it is as a room aroma because fleas hate the smell. Using it as a room freshener will keep kitty from consuming it.

Cut a piece of window screen (you can find it at any home or hardware store) to fit over the top of a Mason jar.  Fill the jar with eucalyptus leaves, cover it with the cut piece of screen (without the flat lid) and screw the ring over the screen.  Voila, you have a lovely room deodorizer that repels fleas in any room and keeps kitty safe from chowing down on a substance that is harmful if eaten.

Fennel

Gently rub fennel leaves on your cat’s fur to act as a flea repellant. Or try adding fennel leaves to hot water, steep for ten minutes, leave it to cool, and then add the liquid to your favorite cat shampoo to intensify the flea killing and repelling abilities. Fennel can also be combined with several of the other herbs and aromatic plants I mention here.

Garlic

Garlic can be extremely toxic to cats and is, therefore, not the answer for how to get rid of fleas on cats. All cats are sensitive to garlic, some cats more than others. But with so many other excellent natural ways to treat fleas, I suggest you leave this ingredient alone for the health of your cat unless your veterinarian requests you use a specific product.

Grooming

I may sound like a broken record, but an often-cleaned and well-groomed cat is far less likely to have continuing flea problems. Remember that fleas cannot swim. A little pet shampoo in the bathwater penetrates the flea’s exoskeleton making it difficult to control their body mechanics to escape the water.

Fleas need time and space to repeat their life cycle. Regularly bathing, combing, grooming, and brushing all separate the flea from your cat, and that creates a much more peaceful, relaxed, and healthy pet. This is one of the most cost effective methods for how to get rid of fleas on cats.

Herbs (see Plants)

Laundry

Fleas constantly lay eggs. They lay between four and eight eggs after every meal. This means that one of the most effective ways to get fleas under control is to wash your cat’s bedding, blankets, and cloth toys frequently. It is a good idea to try to launder their items at least once weekly. And this is a perfect time to engage multiple items on this list. For instance, laundering your cat’s cloth items with your standard laundry detergent in hot water and toss in some lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Be consistent about washing because fleas lay their eggs deep in material, and the more often you wash the bedding, the less likely it will be that the eggs hatch a new generation of fleas.

Lavender

Here again, is a smell that humans love and fleas hate. But again, this one has a significant caution. Lavender unquestionably repels fleas, but it also is toxic to cats. Some websites will tell you it is fine to put it on your cat or put it in their bathwater. But the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals clearly states that the common lavender plant (Lavandula angustifolia) contains linalool and linalyl acetate, two compounds highly toxic to cats.

Ingesting lavender in almost any form, like licking their fur after a bath that includes lavender or spraying it in a diluted form on their coat, can create life-threatening health issues. Lavender is another plant that I would suggest simply put into a mason jar, cut a piece of window screen to fit over the top, and secure the metal ring over the window screen (without the flat lid). Once again, you will have a lovely room deodorizer that repels fleas in any room and yet still keeps kitty safe from chowing down on a substance that is harmful if eaten or sprayed on their coat.

You can also plant it in your garden as a deterrent to repel fleas before they ever enter your home, providing your kitty doesn’t ingest the leaves.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a plant with lemon-scented leaves. You can plant lemon balm in your garden to deter fleas and other insects. As with most insects, fleas do not like the smell and will stay away from yards with lemon balm present. This fresh-smelling plant is another one that you can steep in some water and comb onto your kitty’s coat to deter fleas. Lemon balm is one of those plants that again lends itself well to the mason-jar-deodorizer idea I have mentioned throughout this article. Combining the herbs, aromatic plants, and spices mentioned here in the article can add an outstanding and personalized scent-feast to your home with the added benefit of keeping fleas away.

Lemons/Lemon Juice/Lemon Spray

Lemon is the perfect solution for your flea troubles and a powerful solution for how to get rid of fleas on cats. The citric acid in lemon juice kills fleas. In addition, lemons have d-limonene, an ingredient used in many insecticides.

A simple recipe for a natural lemon flea spray is to put three quartered lemons into a pot of water. If you wish, add a bit of salt or other plants/herbs or spices on this list, or you can just use the lemons. Cover the lemons with about two quarts of water. Bring the ingredients to a boil, turn down the heat and continue to let them simmer for about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the mixture steep overnight.

The next day, strain the liquid from the lemons and any other plant matter. Pour the strained liquid into a spray bottle and spray directly onto kitty’s fur or spray on a comb and comb it through your fur buddy’s coat. You can reapply as often as once daily.

Focus the application of the lemon spray on the areas fleas most often hide; around the base of the cat’s tail, around kitty’s neck, behind their ears, and in the warm regions where their legs meet the torso.

Be especially careful not to get the spray in your cat’s eyes as lemon juice burns if it gets in the eyes.

You can also spray the mixture onto kitty’s bed, or toys, or anywhere else you have noticed the traces or clues of fleas.

Also, lemon juice is an excellent additive to your laundry when you wash your cat’s bedding and cloth items. Just throw a bit of lemon juice in with whatever detergent you normally use.

You may see suggestions on the Internet to use the lemon spray on your furniture. I would suggest caution as lemon juice is a bleaching agent. So test the lemon spray first on an area that will not be seen. If no bleaching occurs to the fabric, then you can feel reasonably safe that you can use it on your upholstered furniture.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a plant I strongly suggest you grow in your garden as a flea deterrent. But for indoor use, I recommend you boil lemongrass in water for about ten minutes, steep overnight, and then place it in a spray bottle. Then spray the solution anywhere you suspect or have seen fleas. Lemongrass is not a flea killer, but it acts as a flea repellant.  Important note: Do not use lemongrass essential oils containing (VOC’s) volatile organic compounds, which are highly toxic to cats.

Mints

Peppermint, Spearmint, Watermint, etc., have all shown positive results in deterring and, in some cases, killing fleas. But I want to be very clear; all these mint varieties also can have very distressing side effects, especially for cats. I am not offering suggestions for using it because I am very concerned about the side effects. If you choose to use any variety of mint, be sure to pay extremely close attention to how your cat responds. If you notice any respiratory distress, vomiting, seizures, or unusual behaviors after using a mint product, please contact your vet immediately. And, once again, before using any new compound, I suggest you consult your veterinarian.

Nematodes

While they will not treat a flea problem inside the house, they will keep fleas from multiplying in your yard. You can buy nematodes at your local home and garden supply store. They are microscopic, wormish parasites. They are not harmful to pets or humans, but they interrupt the flea’s life cycle because they parasitize flea larvae, thereby destroying them. Nematodes prefer sandy, moist soil, so if you buy and release these into your yard, be sure to water your yard frequently to keep these flea larvae killers healthy and able to do their job.

Important note: Some nematode species aggressively harm plants.  Check to be sure you buy beneficial nematodes that kill pests.

Neem Oil

This is another essential oil you will see described as great for getting rid of fleas. And it is very effective in getting rid of fleas on dogs, but cats are very sensitive to neem oil and can make them ill. Please use one of the other natural remedies listed here that are safe for cats and avoid using neem oil.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is used exactly like coconut oil. The two plant oils have similar properties and kill fleas in the same way; they suffocate them. Simply bathe your cat buddy, then apply the olive oil to both skin and fur. Wait a few hours, rinse the oil away, and be prepared for all the dead fleas to wash out. This is a highly effective treatment, and kitty will benefit from grooming any remaining olive oil off his coat, leaving your cat luxuriously soft.

Important note: Do not fret about your little fur baby trying to lick the olive oil off their fur. That is fine, and it is not at all harmful to cats.

Oregano and Oregano Oil

You will find oregano oil listed on numerous lists for deterring fleas, but I have strong reservations about its use.

Oregano has a natural ingredient called carvacrol, a highly effective natural flea repellant. The bad news is that oregano also contains phenols, a set of compounds that are toxic to your kitty.

I am not offering suggestions for its use because I am very concerned about the side effects. So I offer the same caution with this as I do with any of the essential oil products. If you use any type of product or choose to make any product with oregano oil, be sure to pay extremely close attention to how your cat responds. Please contact your vet immediately if you notice any respiratory distress, vomiting, seizures, or unusual behaviors after using an oregano oil product. And once again, before using any new compound, we urge you to consult your veterinarian.

Pennyroyal

Here is another plant/herb you will find on numerous lists on the Internet as a flea deterrent, but that is highly toxic to cats. The typical side effects are miscarriage, listlessness, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing up blood, difficulty breathing, bloody nose, lethargy, coma, seizures, death. Please do not use pennyroyal to treat fleas on your cat or in your cat’s environment.

Plants

Many plants, herbs, and spices are very effective in getting rid of or deterring fleas. Some plants, however, which I have found recommended for killing fleas, are harmful or even toxic to cats. Our list is arranged alphabetically and provides information about both beneficial and detrimental natural treatments for fleas. Plands can often be the most cost effective method to get rid of fleas on cats.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a highly effective treatment for fleas. Fleas hate the smell of rosemary and will do everything they can to get away from it. You can use rosemary in many different ways to deter fleas. Wash your cat in a bath sprinkled with ground rosemary needles. This herb not only kills fleas but is also a relaxing herb with anti-inflammatory properties that will calm your cat if fleas or dry skin have been a problem.

You can also crush the needles into a fine powder and spread it throughout the house, anywhere your cat lays or plays.

Another excellent use of crushed rosemary is to create a water and rosemary mixture. Crush a large handful of rosemary needles into ½ gallon of water, shake it up, and then gently and slowly pour it over your kitty, rubbing it into their coat, allowing it to dry naturally — no need to rinse it off.

You can also make a home flea treatment by boiling crushed rosemary, cut up lemons, chamomile leaves (a chamomile teabag works great), and water in a saucepan for 10 minutes. Steep the mixture overnight, strain out the solids, put the remaining liquid in a spray bottle, and spray in all the areas kitty hangs out, including bedding, furniture, and carpeting. Also, squirt it around the baseboards of the carpeting as fleas will often hide there. You can make and spray this as often as you like, but once every three days will help the most until you notice your flea problem is gone.

Rue

While it is true that rue will deter fleas, and you will find many articles on the Internet referencing its use, I would suggest that you not use rue. Fleas aren’t the only creatures that dislike rue – cats do too. So applying it to your cat’s coat would be like torture. The cat would want to escape the noxious odor, but they would be unable to because the smell that is so distasteful to them would be all over them, leaving them unable to escape. So granted, they would have no fleas, but they would be miserable and trapped in an odor they abhor.

Sage

This readily available plant is very versatile in repelling fleas. Fleas do not like the smell of sage, so burning sage leaves, a sage bundle, or sage incense will cause fleas to want to leave the environment. The plant can be grown outdoors to deter fleas in your garden, also.

Salt

Salt is a great way to kill not only fleas but also flea eggs and flea larvae. Salt quickly and aggressively dehydrates. The easiest way to use salt is to sprinkle finely ground salt in the areas your kitty relaxes. Also, spread it on your carpet or upholstery. Vacuum every couple of days to remove the dead fleas, eggs, and larvae. Reapply the salt as it will be removed by vacuuming. Continually doing this over approximately six weeks will ultimately get rid of fleas on cats end your in-home flea problem.

Spices (see Plants)

Vacuum

While vacuuming may not be exotic or unusual, it is effective. If you vacuum your home daily, you will effectively mitigate a flea problem. The simple act of vacuuming will continue to reduce the number of fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae throughout your home.

Important note: Remember to empty your vacuum cleaner outside after each vacuuming session and dispose of the bag or contents of the vacuum in an exterior waste bin. Vacuuming does not kill fleas; it only collects them. Ultimately you want them removed from your home. So collecting them and disposing of them outside will decrease the overall population by removing the next generations of eggs and larvae.

Vinegar (see Apple Cider Vinegar)

Water

Water really does work to kill fleas, eggs, and larvae. Since fleas cannot grasp onto the hair shafts, they fall off in the water and drown. A good dip in a tub of water will wash away most, if not all, of the fleas on your pet. Using a gentle shampoo or a little bit of dish liquid, perhaps one with a citrus base (fleas are repelled by lemon and orange), along with thorough and regular brushing, will go a long way toward ridding your pet’s body of fleas.

Wormwood

Again, while you will find wormwood on numerous lists of flea repelling substances, please note that it is dangerous to use on cats and can be toxic. Hence, I am not offering you ways to use it as there are so many substances on our list that are non-toxic to cats. I request you use one of those instead. If you do feel compelled to use wormwood, please consult with your veterinarian first.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent with a smell that fleas do not like. To make a quick and straightforward flea repellant, mix:

Long Term Flea Control

Once you have tackled the immediate flea infestation problem, the CDC offers straightforward recommendations for keeping fleas from coming back and gaining a foothold again.

These tips and suggestions are excellent advice to help you take preventative steps and limit the possibility of ever having problems with fleas again in the future. Again, sometimes the best answer to how to get rid of fleas on cats is to prevent the problem before it starts.

Important note:  I deliberately repeat – and veterinarians consistently point out – that the healthier your cat’s immune system, the easier it is for them to withstand and avoid a flea outbreak. So keep in mind that the quality of food, access to exercise, a clean environment, and minimizing the time your cat spends outdoors all help to keep your home flea-free.

Future Cat Care and Cat Health

Naturally, you do everything you can to keep your cat happy, healthy, and disease-free. But sometimes, just as a small flea problem can spin out of control, other issues, conditions, or illnesses can be lurking around the corner. Being prepared can mean the difference between a healthy, happy kitty and a listless and uncomfortable cat. Being prepared means knowing you can handle the future, whatever lies ahead. Check out our article: Cat Insurance – What you need to know before you buy, and know that when the time comes, your fur buddy is protected.