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Diatomaceous Earth for Fleas: Safe Natural Pest Control for Pets

| Modified on Nov 23, 2025
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Diatomaceous Earth Benefits for Pets

If you’re tired of spending money on chemical flea treatments, food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) offers a safe, effective, and inexpensive alternative.

Many Earth Clinic readers swear by it to control fleas, ticks, and other pests on dogs, cats, and around the home.

Beyond flea control, DE is a rich source of silica and is commonly used to support hair, skin, nail health, and internal parasite cleansing for both humans and animals when used correctly and cautiously.

⚠️ Important Safety Reminder

CRITICAL: Only use food-grade diatomaceous earth (typically containing <1% crystalline silica). Never use “pool grade,” “filter grade,” or industrial DE, which is heat-treated, contains high levels of crystalline silica, and is toxic to humans and pets.

What Is Diatomaceous Earth?

Diatomaceous earth is a fine, off-white powder made from the fossilized remains of microscopic aquatic organisms called diatoms. These fossilized shells are made almost entirely of silica. While the powder feels like soft flour to human skin, at a microscopic level these particles are cylindrical with razor-sharp edges.

DE has countless uses—from natural pest control to garden and household applications—making it a valuable addition to holistic home care. However, because it is a fine dust, it must always be handled carefully to avoid irritating the lungs. Even food-grade DE should not be inhaled; consider wearing a mask when applying larger amounts.

How DE Works Against Fleas & Parasites

Diatomaceous earth kills fleas, mites, ants, bed bugs, and many crawling insects mechanically rather than chemically. It is not a poison.

  1. Contact: The insect or parasite comes into contact with the powder.
  2. Abrasion: The microscopic sharp edges cut through the insect's waxy exoskeleton.
  3. Dehydration: The porous silica absorbs the insect's body fluids, causing them to dry out and die, typically within 4 to 48 hours.

Because DE works via physical action, pests cannot develop immunity or resistance to it, unlike synthetic chemicals.

Protocol for Pets (Fleas & Worms)

Internal Use (Worms & Parasites)

Many pet owners use food-grade DE to help address roundworms, whipworms, pinworms, and hookworms. It is typically fed consistently for at least 30 days to span the hatching lifecycle of parasites. Always work with a holistic or integrative veterinarian for persistent infestations or if your pet has underlying health conditions.

  • Kittens & Small Dogs (under 10 lbs): ½ to 1 teaspoon daily.
  • Cats & Medium Dogs (10–50 lbs): 1 teaspoon daily.
  • Large Dogs (50–100 lbs): 1 tablespoon daily.
  • Giant Breeds (100+ lbs): 2 tablespoons daily.

Tip: Always mix DE into wet food or a liquid broth. Do not top-dress dry kibble with dry powder, as the pet may inhale the dust while eating, which can irritate their lungs.

External Use (Fleas & Ticks)

  • Application: Apply a light dusting of DE to your pet’s coat, focusing on the back, belly, neck, and tail base. Rub it gently into the fur down to the skin.
  • Safety: Cover or cup your pet's eyes and nose during application to prevent irritation. Avoid creating visible dust clouds.
  • Frequency: Repeat every 3–4 days during an active infestation, or once a month for prevention.
  • Post-Care: DE is drying. If your pet has dry or sensitive skin, consider adding a bit of coconut oil or omega-3s to their diet and/or bathing with a moisturizing shampoo after the fleas are gone.

Protocol for Human Consumption

Many Earth Clinic readers take food-grade DE to support hair and nail strength (due to the silica content), bowel regularity, and to help create an internal environment that is less friendly to parasites. These uses are based on anecdotal reports rather than FDA-approved medical claims.

Hydration is Key: DE is highly absorbent. You must drink plenty of water throughout the day (aim for 2 liters minimum) to avoid constipation or dehydration headaches.
  • Start Slow: Begin with 1 teaspoon mixed into a tall glass of water or juice once a day. Drink immediately before the powder settles.
  • Work Up: Over the course of 2–3 weeks, you can gradually increase the dose to 1 tablespoon daily if well tolerated.
  • Timing: Many people prefer taking it on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after eating.
  • Cycle It: Common patterns include “10 days on, 10 days off,” or taking it daily for up to 90 days for a full cleanse, then taking a break.

Note: While many users report parasite-cleansing, digestive, and cosmetic benefits from internal DE, food-grade diatomaceous earth is not an FDA-approved treatment for any medical condition. Consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have chronic illness, or take prescription medications.

Treating Your Home & Yard

Indoor Carpet & Furniture Treatment

  1. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly first to stimulate flea movement and remove eggs and debris.
  2. Lightly sprinkle a thin layer of DE over carpets, rugs, pet bedding, and into couch crevices. Use a flour sifter or spice shaker for even distribution.
  3. Work the powder gently into the carpet fibers with a broom or gloved hand.
  4. Wait: Leave it for 12 to 48 hours. The longer it stays, the more fleas and larvae it can reach.
  5. Vacuum Carefully: Vacuum the powder up slowly, avoiding creating dust clouds.

⚠️ Vacuum Warning

DE is very fine and can clog standard household vacuum filters and burn out the motor. It is highly recommended to use a shop-vac or a vacuum with a high-quality HEPA filter bag when cleaning up large amounts of DE.

Outdoor Application

Sprinkle DE around door frames, window sills, foundation lines, and patio perimeters. You can also dust specific areas of the lawn where pets sleep or rest.

  • Dry Only: DE is not effective when wet. You must reapply after rain or heavy morning dew.
  • Protect Beneficial Insects: DE can harm beneficial insects such as bees, ladybugs, and other pollinators. Apply it only in targeted areas and avoid dusting flowers or active pollinator zones.
  • Application: Use a hand duster, shaker, or gloved hand and avoid spreading large airborne clouds of powder.

What Earth Clinic Readers & Other Users Report

Most Helpful Experiences

  • “Fleas gone in 24 hours!” Many readers report dramatic flea reduction after lightly dusting pets, bedding, and carpets with DE.
  • Hair & Nail Support: Internal DE is frequently associated with stronger nails, thicker hair, and improved skin tone after several weeks.
  • Ant & Roach Control: A thin DE barrier along baseboards, pantries, and entry points helps stop ants and other crawling insects.
  • Pet Parasite Cleanup: Some owners report seeing dead worms or improved stool quality within 24–48 hours of internal DE use.

Mixed or Cautionary Reports

  • Dry Skin: Both pets and humans may experience dryness; reducing frequency or adding moisture (oils, omega-3s) often helps.
  • Inhalation Irritation: DE dust can trigger coughing or throat irritation—users recommend applying slowly or wearing a mask.
  • Vacuum Problems: Standard vacuums may clog or burn out; Shop-Vacs or HEPA bags are strongly recommended for cleanup.
  • Mess Factor: DE can leave light residue on darker surfaces; many users apply it strategically only where needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does DE kill flea eggs?

No. DE kills adult fleas and larvae, but it cannot penetrate the egg. This is why you must repeat treatments every few days or keep the powder down for 3–4 weeks to catch new fleas as they hatch.

Can I put DE on my chickens?

Yes. Many chicken keepers use food-grade DE to help control mites and lice. You can add it to their dust bath area so they can apply it themselves. Avoid excessive dust and protect your own lungs during application.

Does DE expire?

No. As long as it is kept dry, DE is a mineral fossil and has an indefinite shelf life. It does not degrade over time.

Is it safe for furniture?

Yes, but it can be messy. It can be lightly dusted into the crevices of couches and pet furniture where fleas hide. Test a small area first and vacuum thoroughly once treatment is complete.

Food-grade diatomaceous earth remains one of the safest, most affordable, and most effective natural tools for flea control and general pest management. When used properly, it can reduce or replace expensive chemical treatments while protecting your family and pets from harsh toxins. Apply carefully, avoid inhalation, stay hydrated with internal use, and work with your vet or healthcare provider as needed—Earth Clinic readers continue to confirm DE’s power as a trusted natural remedy.

Related Links:

Health Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
Parasite and Worm Remedies
Ted's Borax and Hydrogen Peroxide Remedy for Dog Mange

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Sort by Default New Loved

Broad Benefits

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Posted by Rebekah (Spotsylvania, VA ) on 03/28/2021
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have horses and dogs.

I had a dog, she passed from old age. But at age 12 she started to have troubles getting up in the morning after a long sleep and also had problems climbing a flight of stairs. I started her on 1 tablespoon of DE and within 2 days saw a dramatic improvement, on the third day it was as if she never had a problem and got up as her usual self and climb those stairs without a problem for the next 1.5 yrs until she started to decline as old age was getting to her. The DE helped her live her old age life to its fullest without mobility issues.

I have a horse that has been on DE for 5 years now. He use to get bad Abscess on 1 hoof. After just 6 months on DE he had no more issues. I transitioned him from an expensive all natural joint health supplements to DE over a period of 1 year. No experience of joint issues at all or Abscess.

I have another horse who doesn't digest dry foods at all. Meaning Hay, or any type of pellets (dry), or sry feed. I put her on 2 cup of DE and within 3 weeks she didn't only gain weight but was getting over weight. Had to slow down on her morning feed significantly, about half the amount. She maintained her nice shape all through winter. Once she was on Pasture, I lower the DE dosage to 1 cup during the Spring through end of Fall for benefits purposes. Saved me several hundred dollars a month on feed including lots of Alfalfa.

Just a basic idea of how much I fed her before starting her on DE to even help a little with weight. 2 full huge scoops of Alfalfa cubes daily including her, Alfalfa pellets, Oats, garlic powder, coconut powder and flaxseed. I use to spend at least 300 a month if not more just on her feed. Now, it's down to $100 every 2 months. Instead of Alfalfa pellets, I give her Timothy pellets. And I only give Alfalfa cubes as treats now.

Broad Benefits
Posted by Vreed27 (Seattle, Wa) on 07/28/2012

Yes she is trying to get your money. You can buy ten pounds of Food Grade DE on the internet for about $20 with shipping included!

Broad Benefits
Posted by Lesley (Neenah, Wi) on 03/13/2010
 ★★★★☆

Ted, or anyone else, have any of you tried food grade diatomacious earth (DE)? It sure SEEMS to dry everything up fast, including MY white heads, dogs white heads, dogs' black heads (which came pooping out themselves, to be combed out easily with a flea comb) much else. It seems to be so effective at drying out shells/bodies of insects (fleas etc) and so safe, it made me try to use it as a dusting powder on the dog at the site of demodex infection. It certainly SEEMED to work.

I was so pleased (this before Dx with demodex). The vet thought TOO drying and told me to stop as antibiotics were started. My little old shih tzu girl became worse and worse.

When I restarted, (after visiting dog dermatologist who also said not to use, and AFTER things were looking really bad again) once again it all seemed to calm right down.

I also contacted a holistic vet who endorsed it on the site that I purchased the product from and she said it could be used as a cure for generalized demodex, but that I had to purchase her "package" ($125) for her further help.

Somehow, that seemed funny to me--my experience is vets who have answers try to give out that info as much as possible. Am I overly suspicious?

Lesley

Diatomaceous Earth Side Effects in Dogs

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Posted by Natalya (Florida) on 07/02/2016

Hi, I started giving to my dog diatomaceous about 5 weeks ago. She is 105 lb and I started minimum dose and increase to 1 1/2 table spoon. Two days ago she got a urine infection, which she never had it before, and she is almost 10 years old.

My question is, can the diatomaceous cause that? The doctor said if it has a high calcium, it can develop the bladder stones.

Ear Infections

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Posted by Marisa (San Jose, USA) on 04/18/2008
 ★★★★★

My cat was miserable and his ear stank. I put a pinch of diatomaceous earth (swimming pool filter grade)in each ear. He seemed to be a bit better in about 40 minutes. He has stopped shaking his head and seems less lethargic. We'll see if he needs something more, (if he has a bacterial infection. His ear smelled like feces. ewwwwww!

Replied by Binxy
(Brisbane Australia)
01/01/2014
★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

In response to Marisa from San Jose, USA:

Never, EVER use pool grade DE. It has been specially treated and its crystalized structure is dangerous to your health (and your pets). ONLY use food grade DE with living creatures.

Replied by Karen
(Ohio)
12/18/2016

MARISA, ONLY use Food Grade DE Powder, the one for swimming pools can KILL your Pet

Replied by Pam E.
(SW California)
12/27/2024
171 posts

"Swimming pool filter grade" is sold & labelled:

For *INDUSTRIAL USE ONLY* for a reason!

NEVER use it to apply or give to a living creature in ANY way!

ONLY use FOOD GRADE Diatomacious Earth for health reasons!

Ear Mites

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Posted by Soazburrolady (Southern, Az) on 09/01/2016
 ★★★★★

About 6 years ago, I trapped 2 kittens who were playing in a major retail store garden department. One of them, Rosebud, had the worst ear mites I have ever seen. Her ears had scabs in them. I used the diatomaceous earth to eliminate the mites by dipping my little finger in it and rubbing directly into her ear (no wetting) - at least twice a day. I think it probably took a few weeks to eradicate the little buggers. The good news is that she has never had them again - and to this day she is the only one of my kitties who willingly allows me to touch her ears. All the best.

Replied by Lisa
(Athens, Tn)
09/20/2016

Thank you for your reply. I will start doing the treatment. I have also read using yellow dock but all of the remedies use dried herbs or tincture to make a tea. I have it in powder form and don't know what ratio yellow dock/water to use. Thanks again Soazburrolady

Ear Mites
Posted by Lynn (Gulfport, Florida) on 01/21/2009
 ★★★★★

My male cat had scratched his ears so much that the ear developed a huge bubble and separated the ear skin/flesh. I had to take him to the vet for expensive treatment and surgery. It was due to ear mites. The ear is now permanently disfigured and ruined his appearance. I used diatomacious earth (food grade) mixed with a little water for transport, and and eye dropper, and put it in his ears when the mites came back. The water will evaporate and leaves the DE in the ear for ongoing treatment, as it is a powder and coats the inside of the ear a little. You don't need much. He stopped scratching by that night, and he hasn't had a problem since. That was a couple of years ago. My other cats are having problems though, and I am going to use it on them. I HATE ear mites and see how my cats can suffer with them. You can buy it (food grade) online or sometimes in a plant nursery (they use it to kill insects). It pays to remember that there may be an infection in the ears as well, and without a proper examination, you can't know. As much as I don't like vets offices, checking for an infection is worth it, especially in severe cases. One of my cats had mites and an infection. Her energy picked up after treatment for the infection, and I felt guilty that maybe she'd had it all along and it was painful. It's important to find a vet you like. Talk to people and get a referral for one you trust. Treatment can utilize both natural and standard treatment when appropriate.

Replied by Lisa
(Athens, Tn)
08/31/2016

What would you say the ratio is for DE & water. How much did you put in the ears? I brought my mom's cat home to live with me after her recent passing. I'm in dire need of help. My vet wants me to use Ivamec he mixed with mineral oil & I've read to my bad things about it. Urgent need of some help for him. Than you!

Replied by Julie
(England)
09/12/2016

HI, for ear mites in dogs, cats, rabbits use Thornit Powder. Try Amazon or Ebay

Ear Mites
Posted by Lynn (Jeannette, PA)
★★★★★

I have found that putting a pinch of food-grade diatomaceous earth into the dog or cat's ear kills the mites. I do it daily for about a month since that is how long the mites can take to hatch. Within a few days though the animal has absolutely no symptoms of mites and it is completely safe for pets of all ages and sizes. It is also a great way to get rid of mites on birds and to rid a pet of internal parasites.

Fleas

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Posted by Jayna Dinnyes (California) on 09/15/2025
 ★★★★★

I have been using organic food grade diatomaceous earth for years now. (diatamaceousearth.com) The first kitty that adopted us "Pretty" was a beautiful calico covered with fleas. I gave her a dry bath with DE avoiding her eyes. I also put it into her wet food (to kill the eggs inside) and shook it in the dry. She completely recovered from them and was a wonderful pet for years. DE is also good for US, killing parasites and containing silicon. It also is good for gardening and keeping away ants.

Fleas
Posted by Tony C. (Calif) on 01/25/2021
 ★★★★★

I used to mix the Diatomaceous earth in my kennel to get rid of the fleas. I would buy large bags of the earth. It worked good, never saw a flea.

Fleas
Posted by Keener (Larryville Ks) on 07/20/2018
 ★★★★★

It REALLY works for fleas and ticks. I live in an area of the US known for having lots of fleas and ticks. I started using the diatomaceous earth in May and it's now July and I have had NO fleas on my dog or in my house :) I simply put it in one of those red ketchup bottles from the dollar store. I put it on my dog and on his bedding. We have been flea free all summer :)

Fleas
Posted by Peggy (Delbarton, WV US) on 12/20/2014
 ★★★★★

I was reading all the comments. I have used FOOD GRADE diatomaceous earth on all my dogs and cat for years. It eliminates worms, and handles the fleas. During the worst season for fleas I use it around my doors. I only use it on their wet food, not dry and just a pinch once a month. I have yet to see any ill effects from the use of Food Grade DE. Pool Grade is very dangerous for humans and animals, make certain you purchase Food Grade, I get mine at Tractor Supply.

Fleas
Posted by Tara (Baton Rouge, La) on 12/25/2011
 ★★★★★

My cat had a tick behind his eat for a while because I didn't know what it was. Luckily my brother came over one day and recognized it. I had some food grade diatomaceous earth on hand because I've used it for other things. I sprinkled some on the tick area and rubbed it in once daily. The tick just seemed to shrink and disappear and was gone within a week or two. I even forgot to do it some days. :D

I also sprinkle it on my cats' fur and rub in every now and then to control fleas. It works well.

Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth is awesome and has many uses and benefits. I bought 50 lbs. online.

Replied by Sherry
(Virginia Beach, Virginia)
06/25/2016

Help! I adopted 2 ferals who I can't put collars on because they are still warming up to me. What can I put in their food that they will eat? How much is it? I have 1 adult and 2 6 month olds.

Replied by Suseeq
(Sydney, Australia)
06/25/2016

I would go all raw and spray their coat with apple cider vinegar and water. Also put some in drinking water. Diatomaceous earth dosages can be found on this site. I have never used it so can't speak from experience here.

Fleas
Posted by Jp (Monroe, Ny) on 10/28/2010
 ★★★★★

Hi Pennie from Indpl, I also use food grade Diatomaceous Earth. It is awesome stuff. I use it around my foundation to kill fleas and ticks, instead of pesticides. I also mix 1/2 cup, with 1 tablespoon of dish washing soap, into a gallon of water. I mix this into a pump sprayer and spray my lawn. It's alot less messy looking, than spreading it dry. No tick and fleas;0) You can also give it to your dog as a dewormer. I don't use it as a dewormer, because I use garlic and RAW ACV. Garlic will get rid of heartworms and intestinal parasites and ACV will get rid of fleas. I've also used Diatomaceous Earth, to get rid of bed bugs. Fill up a sock and pat around your house. Wear a dust mask while doing this. Than leave your house until the dust settles. Leave it there for 3 weeks and say goodbye to the bed bugs and roaches;0)

Replied by Matthew
(Onamia, Mn)
10/01/2016

How much of this food grade DE stuff do you put your dogs and cats? I'm planning to go buy some somewhere (i heard hardware stores carry it).

Replied by Theresa
(Mpls., Mn)
10/01/2016

Hey Matthew!

Hardware stores do carry DE however it is not the kind for applying to your pet or taking internally. The type to be used on the pet- and safe for your pet to lick up - is the food grade DE, not the hardware store kind. Only use the product from the hardware store outside.

Replied by Linda
(Cape Coral, FL)
04/12/2025

Hello, I was just reading your comment and I have always been told garlic is deadly to pets. Just wanted to mention that since you were saying you give your dog garlic. Apparently it hasn't hurt him or her but I just wanted to mention it.

Fleas
Posted by June (KC, KS) on 12/25/2008

Hi, I bought my DE from www.herbalremedies.com. They have great prices. I mix it in my cat's food, and sometimes sprinkle it on their fur but don't use it on the carpet.

As far as keeping fleas out of your house, vacuum of course, this kills fleas. I mix up a spray that really helps. I use a blend of any of these oils: neem, eucalyptus, tea tree, citronella, etc...and add water in a spray bottle. Add as much oil needed to get a strong smell, roughly 20-30 drops of each oil. I spray this on the carpet as often as I need and lightly on furniture. It helps repel and will also destroy eggs.

I've also read you can place liquid dish soap in a plate and put these around your house. The fleas are supposed to be drawn to the soap and drown. You then pick up the plate, dump the fleas and start over. I haven't tried this, but heard it's a good remedy.

Also, google for information on www.holisticat.com. This site charges for membership, but their old posts are free to read. They have great suggestions on natural pet treatments.


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