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Coconut Oil for Fleas: Does It Do the Trick?

October 3, 2023

Pet owners everywhere can rejoice – you can use coconut oil for fleas on your cats and dogs!

As a parent to multiple fur babies, I have been doing more and more research on using all-natural products for my cats and dogs. This is why when I came across a coconut oil remedy for fleas, I had to know more.

In this post, I will show you scientific proof that coconut oil is effective. I will also provide you some guidelines on what kind of oil to use and how to apply it to your pets’ fur.

Learn how to treat your pets at home today!

Does Coconut Oil Kill Fleas?

The most important question of all is coconut oil actually effective against fleas.

Well, the good news is that it is!

One study showed that dogs treated with coconut oil shampoo led to a complete removal of the flea infestation.

Best of all, researchers were able to see the results within one hour.

And, a day after the treatment, the pooches were still free of fleas.

Now, it should be noted that only a limited amount of research has been done on this topic.

However, it does appear that coconut oil may be able to kill fleas.

Keep in mind that coconut oil may only be effective for smaller infestations.

If your dog has a serious flea problem, it is best to ask your vet what the best course of action is.

Your pooch may require a more medical approach.

a flea up close

Can You Use Coconut Oil for Fleas on Cats?

OK, so coconut oil works for fleas on dogs. How about cats?

Since cats are smaller and have very different systems to dogs, it is only natural to wonder is coconut oil toxic to cats?

Coconut oil is actually quite safe to use on cats. It is often used to treat dermatitis and other skin conditions.

And, since it worked on dogs, there is a good chance that it will also help to get rid of flea infestations on your feline friend as well.

The Best Coconut Oil for Killing Fleas

The research with the dogs showed that undiluted virgin coconut oil was the best option for getting rid of fleas.

So, No products found. is one of the best options for both you and your furry friends.

It is virgin, cold-pressed, and organic.

As such, it contains a higher amount of nutrients, including the components required to ward off fleas and other creepy crawlies.

Related Reading
A Guide to Find the Best Coconut Oils for All Your Needs

Is Coconut Oil a Natural Flea and Tick Repellent for Dogs and Cats?

As you are well aware, prevention is better than a remedy, particularly when it comes to fleas.

Thus, it would be nice to use coconut oil as a repellent to ensure that your furry friends are free of flea infestations.

So, can you use it in such a manner?

Well, there is some evidence to suggest that ticks are repelled by coconut oil.

Due to this, there is a good chance that fleas will be impacted as well.

Related Reading
What You Should Know About Using Coconut Oil for Cat Asthma?
Can You Use Coconut Oil for Mange Treatment?

Does Coconut Oil Repel Fleas on Humans?

The study mentioned in the previous section found that coconut oil can act as a repellent for humans as well.

In fact, it may be just as effective as commercially available insect repellent.

And, unlike mass-produced repellents, coconut oil is all-natural.

As such, you are less likely to suffer from any kind of side effects.

Applying coconut oil

How to Use Coconut Oil for Fleas on Dogs and Cats

Your next order of business is figuring out how to use the coconut oil to get rid of the fleas.

Coconut oil is most effective when it is directly applied to the skin and coat of your pets.

So, make sure to work it into their fur really well.

Pay close attention to the neck area as this is where fleas like to hide out.

Make sure that you completely cover your pet in coconut oil, steering clear of their eyes and inside their ears.

It is fine if your pet tries to lick the coconut oil as it is natural.

However, you shouldn’t allow them to ingest too much as it could cause a stomach upset.

Leave the coconut oil on for at least an hour – longer for greater infestations. Then, wash it off.

You can also use a comb to brush the fleas off the fur.

Make sure to carefully examine your pet’s coat once the oil is washed off.

If the fleas are still there, you may need to repeat the process.

In case the fleas haven’t completely died out after the second application, it is best to get the advice of a vet.

Related Reading
What’s the Verdict on Coconut Oil for Dogs?

Using Coconut Oil as a Repellent

Now, when using coconut oil as a repellent, you don’t have to saturate the skin and fur as much.

So, pour your coconut oil into a spray bottle and spritz it over your pet or your skin.

Pay special attention to paws and the neck as this is where the infestation may begin.

What You Need to Know About Using Coconut Oil

For the most part, coconut oil is natural and, as such, harmless to both you as well as your pets.

At the same time, every human and animal has specific sensitivities.

Thus, it is possible for you or your pets to have an allergic reaction to coconut oil.

If you notice any itching or adverse reactions, make sure to wash off the coconut oil immediately.

In case your pet has any kind of health concerns, speak to a vet before using coconut oil.

They will be able to determine if you should go ahead with the treatment.

If you have experienced an allergic reaction when eating coconut oil, don’t use it on your skin.

This is what you need to know about using coconut oil for fleas. Now, you can use it as an excellent home remedy and repellent!

If you enjoyed this post, head over to our Pinterest page. You can find plenty of other uses of coconut oil for your pets.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
antonio
An Important Disclaimer
The information on this page should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a doctor if you wish to consume any kind of tea regularly for the purpose of treating any condition or illness.
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