Does Apple Cider Vinegar Kill Fleas?

Apple cider vinegar helps keep fleas away from your pets.

Apple cider vinegar has several applications for cleaning, medicine and pet care. According to The Vinegar Institute, a small amount of vinegar added to your pet's food or water will help keep fleas away, but it won't kill the pests.

Usage

The Vinegar Institute recommends adding 1 tsp. of vinegar to every quart of water every day. That ratio is sufficient for a 40-pound dog, but you may need to adjust the ratio for larger or smaller pets. Larger dogs may require more of the mixture.

Considerations

Apple cider vinegar also helps with the itching your pet feels as the result of flea bites. Apply undiluted apple cider vinegar to the affected areas. If the dog has bites and scratched them until the skin broke and bled, dilute the vinegar with an equal amount of water.

Warning

The vinegar has a strong taste that repels fleas and keeps fleas away from your pets, but it doesn't kill fleas. Even if you treat your pet, you may experience problems with flea bites yourself.

References

• The Vinegar Institute: Uses & Tips
• Earth Clinic: Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs