Vinegar is effective at repelling fleas.
When battling a flea infestation in your home, you may wonder if there are home remedies that will work. Knowing the effects of vinegar and use it can help you decide if it is the method for you. Does this Spark an idea?
Why It Works
Apple cider vinegar has long been touted as a health aid. Having your pet ingest the vinegar helps to boost its immune system. A pet with a high immune system is less likely to be impacted by fleas. Also, the taste and smell of vinegar is uninviting to the fleas, repelling them.
On Pets
Applying the vinegar directly to your pet's coat will help repel the fleas. One way to apply the vinegar is by mixing together one part vinegar and one part water. Then the mixture can be sprayed on your dog. Or you can add 1/2 to 1 tbsp. of vinegar to your pet's shampoo before giving it a bath.
Ingested by Pets
Instead of applying the vinegar to your pet's body, feed the vinegar directly to your pet. Add 1/4 tsp. of apple cider vinegar to your pet's water bowl every time you fill it. Increase the amount of vinegar added at each water change until you are adding 1 tsp. every water change. Your pet will ingest the vinegar, giving it a vinegar taste and smell to the fleas.
For Cleaning
Once you have treated your pet, you have to treat your home to complete a flea treatment. Mix together equal parts vinegar and water and spray your furniture and carpets to repel fleas. You can also mix a quarter cup of vinegar into your steam cleaner's water reservoir before cleaning. There will be a vinegar smell, but while it will fade over time for you, the fleas will still be able to smell it.
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