Natural repellents are a safe option for your pet and the environment. Although they contain familiar ingredients, they are still just as effective as the other products. Plus, unlike the chemicals, the natural ingredients don’t cause cancer, diabetes, seizures, liver toxicity and other problems. If the chemical products can cause this many issues with your pet, just think about what they can do to the drinking water, soil and other animals and organisms it may come in contact with.

Instead of poisoning your pet and the environment, you can take preventative measures to protect your pet from fleas. A non-toxic and safe option is combining equal parts of white vinegar and water. This solution can be sprayed onto your pet’s fur to deter fleas. Or you can simply feed your dog or cat a garlic pill on a daily basis, and the garlic odor will repel the fleas too.

If it’s too late and your pet already has introduced the fleas into your home, you need to formulate an eco-friendly plan of attack. Organophosphates and carbamares are synthetic pesticides, which can affect your pet’s nervous system so avoid products containing these ingredients. Instead, look for d-Limonene, which creates a grapefruitlike odor. Since some cats don’t like citrus fruits, try a product containing Diatomaceousearth. This is a natural pesticide that comes from fossilized algae, and it kills fleas by dehydrating them.

Natural, safe and non-toxic flea products don’t always mean that they are ineffective, so give these alternatives a chance before reaching for the chemicals. Also, remember to sweep your home often when you have a flea infestation and empty the vacuum outside as soon as possible.