How Often Should You Apply Lemon Juice to Repel Fleas?

Lemon juice, which contains flea-repelling properties, is a natural and safe alternative.

Fleas

A pregnant flea can lay up to 20 to 50 eggs in one day, which will hatch in two to five days. Within three weeks, the larvae will pupate into adult fleas, which will begin breeding. Due to this, a single flea can turn into an infestation in a short time. The best way to prevent this is to apply flea repellents to your pets so they do not carry fleas from outside into your home.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice naturally contains d-limonene, a compound which is extracted from lemon rinds for use in insecticides. Natural remedy-oriented veterinarians recommend lemon juice tonic as a natural flea repellent. To make the tonic, slice a whole, unpeeled lemon into thin slices. Bring a pint of water to the point of boiling. Add the lemon slices and allow to steep for eight to 12 hours.

Applying to Pets

Apply the lemon tonic to your pet's coat with a sponge. Use your fingers to work it down to the skin. Do not rinse; allow the tonic to dry naturally. The lemon tonic will repel fleas for approximately 24 hours and can be applied daily. Take care to keep the lemon juice away from your pet's eyes.

Use as a Spray

You can dilute the lemon tonic with a cup of water and pour into a spray bottle for easy use. This is handy when you and your pet are traveling or hiking, and the tonic can also be used on humans, if needed, and it is safe enough for children. You can re-apply as often as necessary in areas that are heavily infested with fleas.