How to Kill Ants Without Harming Pets

Ants are a common household pest, but they can pose a health risk to pets if they are ingested. Some ant species can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. If you're looking for a way to kill ants without harming your pets, here are a few safe and effective methods.

Natural Repellents

There are a number of natural repellents that can help keep ants away from your home. These include:

• Peppermint oil: Ants hate the smell of peppermint, so you can sprinkle it around areas where they are likely to enter your home.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon is another natural ant repellent. You can sprinkle it on ant trails or place cinnamon sticks in cabinets and pantries.
• Citrus: Ants also dislike the smell of citrus fruits. You can place orange or lemon peels near ant entrances or spray a mixture of citrus juice and water around your home.
• Vinegar: Vinegar is a natural acid that can kill ants on contact. You can spray it directly on ants or wipe down surfaces where they are likely to travel.

Homemade Ant Baits

If you're dealing with a large ant infestation, you can make your own ant baits to kill the ants and their queen.

• Borax and sugar: Mix equal parts borax and sugar in a small bowl. Place the mixture in a shallow dish and set it out where the ants are active. The ants will be attracted to the sugar and will eat the borax, which will kill them.
• Baking soda and sugar: Mix equal parts baking soda and sugar in a small bowl. Place the mixture in a shallow dish and set it out where the ants are active. The ants will be attracted to the sugar and will eat the baking soda, which will cause them to bloat and die.

Commercial Ant Baits

There are a number of commercial ant baits available that are safe to use around pets. These baits typically contain a slow-acting insecticide that will kill the ants over time.

• Ant gel baits: These baits are applied in small drops around areas where ants are active. The ants will be attracted to the bait and will eat it, which will kill them.
• Ant bait stations: These stations contain a solid or liquid bait that ants can access through a small hole. The ants will eat the bait and will take it back to their colony, which will kill the entire colony.

Professional Pest Control

If you're unable to control the ant infestation on your own, you may need to call a professional pest control company. Pest control companies have access to powerful insecticides that can be used to quickly and effectively eliminate an ant infestation.

When choosing a pest control company, be sure to ask about their experience in dealing with ants and their use of pet-safe insecticides.