
Under normal circumstances, some essential oils can repel those fleas out of your home and out of your dog’s life. Although, in some cases when you have a heavy flea infestation, it is best to call in the professionals to get rid of all those fleas.
It is just that not all essential oils will repel fleas, and some are not good to use when you have pets in your home. When you make your own, you have to be careful of how much and which essential oils to use.
Just continue reading our article to get all the information you need to use essential oils when your pet and home have fleas.
Which Essential Oil Do Fleas Hate?
The list is not that long. In fact, the lists do not always agree with each other on which essential oils fleas hate. If there is any disagreement in the lists, the compilers either left some out, didn’t think they were that effective, or didn’t know about the others.
Here is a list of essential oils that fleas do not like and run from the odor:
- Cedarwood oil- kills and repels fleas (can be sprayed directly on your dog)
- Cedar Oil- kills and repels fleas (cannot be sprayed directly on your pet)
- Clove Oil- kills and repels fleas (cannot be sprayed directly onto your dog)
- Lavender oil- repels fleas only and can be placed on your dog’s skin
- Lemongrass, Basil & Thyme Oils- Lemongrass should be diluted first (repels fleas only)
- Peppermint Oil- should be used on large dog breeds only (repels fleas only)
- Rosemary Oil- add to your dog’s bath (repels fleas only)
- Rose geranium oil- just a few drops applied to your pet’s fur should repel fleas
Did you know that there are a lot of plants the repel fleas? Check out our post “Plants that Repel Fleas” to learn more.
Does Peppermint Oil Repel Fleas?

Yes, it can do this task. But you should dilute it first and add a carrier oil to help get rid of fleas. It should be applied to the fur on your dog’s neck, at the back, and at the tail.
However, you should be careful when using this oil on different dog breeds. Some dogs will be very sensitive to the odor. This essential oil option should be used sparingly and used on large dog breeds only.
Also, if you use too much of this oil it can be toxic to both dogs and cats. You should not use too much at one time. However, there is still a lack of scientific research on these essential oils when it comes to using them on pets.
Cats are very sensitive to this oil and can contract a long list of health issues if you use it on them or near them. Peppermint oil should repel fleas but there are few studies showing if it can kill fleas or not.
The demise of the flea may be the result of the carrier roil or some other flea-killing essential oil. You can apply this essential oil in different ways- topically, orally, and diffused into the air. But there are risks involved with each way. One is not safer than another.
Does Eucalyptus Repel Fleas?

The debate about this essential oil continues. Some people say that it is safe to use for dogs, but you absolutely cannot use it on cats. Then there are others who state that this essential oil is effective at repelling or killing fleas.
The former group says that the minty odor does the repelling, but the latter group points out that there are no scientific studies proving the opposing side’s claims. You may have to do your own experiments on this oil and see for yourself if you get positive results or not.
The ASPCA does warn pet owners that Eucalyptus oil is toxic to more than just cats. it is toxic to dogs and horses as well. Some of the symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and salivation.
If you see these symptoms, take your dog or cat to your vet immediately or to an ASPCA poison control center.
Some Final Words

Some essential oils are very good at repelling and killing fleas. The key is to use the correct amounts and apply them according to proper instructions. Talk to your vet to see what he or she says about using these oils on your dog or cat.
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Please note: We are not veterinarians and you use our advice at your own discretion. We always recommend that you consult your veterinarian whenever you have health-related conditions your furbaby is facing. With that in mind, as pet parents ourselves, we wish nothing but the best for your pet and their healthy and happy lives.