Black dog on walk with owner holding a lemon

Can you use lemon spray for fleas?

You can use lemon spray around the home, but it is not a reliable flea treatment and should not be sprayed onto cats or dogs. Lemon may repel some adult fleas, but it will not eliminate eggs, larvae and pupae hidden in carpets, bedding and furniture, so an infestation is likely to continue.

Citrus essential oils are risky for cats and can cause poisoning through skin contact, licking or inhalation. Natural products can irritate a pet’s skin, eyes or airways. Vet approved flea treatments are safer and will kill 100% of fleas, unlike essential-oil products, which are less effective and potentially harmful. If lemon or citrus oil has contacted your pet, or they develop drooling, vomiting, tremors, lethargy or breathing difficulties, contact your vet immediately.

For effective control, use tailored flea treatment like Itch Flea Treatment for Dogs and Itch Flea Treatment for Cats to make sure its suitable for your pet’s species, age, weight and health. Never use a dog flea treatment on a cat, as some contain ingredients that are highly toxic to cats. Use regularly flea treatment on your pet to kill fleas permanently and treat pets in the household at the same time.

Fleas lay eggs around your home which is why it can sometimes feel like you are seeing more fleas (even after treatment). Kill flea eggs instantly by cleaning and vacuuming your home, washing pet bedding at 60°C and using a household flea treatment to spray on carpets and floors.

Share