Ants. They are a common pest throughout the United States and even the world. In fact, they greatly outnumber humans and can cause a variety of problems both inside of our homes and out.
It’s no wonder you’re looking for a solution to these annoying insect pests. But while many ant repellent products are effective, they’re not always safe for your pets.
In today’s article, we’re looking out for your furry friend while also helping you find a solution to those pesky invading ants. Join us today as we talk about the best pet safe ant killer products and other methods you can use to safely and effectively get rid of ants for good!
Contents
What Makes A Pet Safe Ant Killer Safe For Pets?
Pet safe ant killer is going to be an ant killer that works without being dangerous for your pet.
As we just mentioned, there are an abundance of products on the market promoting pest control and removal, especially when it comes to ants. However, not all products are safe for pets.
How do you know what the best pet safe ant killer is versus other ant killers that contain toxic chemicals and may be dangerous?
It’s actually easier than you may think. Most pet safe ant killers contain natural ingredients that are not only safer for pets, but also people and the environment. If you’re not sure if an ant killer is safe for your pet, read the labels.
Most pet safe ant killers will state clearly that they contain natural ingredients that are safe for animals and children.
However, we should note here that just because some ant killers say they are made with all natural ingredients does not mean they are safe for pets.
For example, some natural pet controls contain ingredients like potent essential oils, hot peppers, alcohols, and other ingredients that can be harmful or irritating to your pet.
When looking for the best pet safe ant killer, most experts recommend getting a product that specifically states it is tried and tested around pets and is safe.
And while it may take a bit more time and research to find the best pet safe ant killer, it’s totally worth it.
Let’s learn more.
Why Do I Need a Pet Safe Ant Killer? Pros and Cons
Pet safe ant killer is not only safer for your pets, but your whole family.
Like anything, there are going to be pros and cons to using a pet safe ant killer. For instance, not all pet safe ant killer products may work as effectively or as quickly as some other products.
Furthermore, some pet safe ant killer products may be more costly.
The truth is, it is possible to find a quality pet safe ant killer that works effectively and quickly, so long as you take your time to research the options you have.
So, do you need a pet safe ant killer? We think so! Here’s why.
First, pet safe ant killers are not only safe for pets, they are also safe for people. If you have both pets and children in the home, then using a pet safe ant killer would likely be your safest pest control option.
As we discussed above, the best pet safe ant killer is going to use natural ingredients that are non-toxic and reduce chances of medical emergencies or side effects if they are gotten into.
When it comes to ant control, using a pet safe ant killer that is natural and safe will not only be better for your dog, your children and you, but also for your garden and even the environment. Many pet safe ant killers will also have the added benefit of not harming other beneficial insects like honeybees, butterflies and ladybugs!
It’s a win-win!
So, without further ado, let’s start by looking at some of the best pet safe ant killers for inside of your home.
Best Pet Safe Ant Killer For Inside of My Home
Ants can get inside your home and are common pests. Some of the best pet safe ant killers are safe for both people and pets
Ants are interesting insects. They work in a hierarchy, which includes sending out scout ants to locate food. When you see a single ant in your home, you should be prepared for hundreds more to follow.
A single ant that is a scout ant is leaving behind a scent trail for his fellow ant friends to follow. This scent trail will attract and lead these other ants to food sources. This means that where there is one ant there are likely many more to come.
This is why being proactive when it comes to using the best pet safe ant killer is so important. It’s also important to use preventative measures and products to clean up scent trails, so be sure when you’re looking for the best pet safe ant killer for inside your home you’re keeping this in mind.
If you’re not sure where to begin looking or which pet safe ant killer products experts recommend, we have you covered with some of our favorite products below.
Eco Defense USDA Ant Killer
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First on our list is a product that is pet friendly and environmentally friendly. Right off the top, this pet spray identifies itself as being child and pet friendly, which is exactly what you want to look for when looking for a good pet safe ant killer.
We also like that this product works for both inside and outside, though it is probably best suited for indoor use as if you have an infestation of ants outside you may need something more heavy duty.
This product works by using all natural, plant-based ingredients, making this a safe ant killer to spray on plants as well. The ant killer is also free of pesticides and kills ants on contact. Best of all, it will not leave behind a strong odor or any harmful fumes that can be irritating to pets and people.
You can order this pet safe ant killer spray in different sizes depending on your needs including a 16 ounce, 32 ounce and a one gallon order.
Harris Plant Oil Ant Spray
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Another all natural spray that is safe to use inside and out and that is pet-friendly is by Harris. This spray is a pet safe ant killer that can be used inside the home and is eco friendly. Again, it is made with natural, plant based ingredients including clove oil and cottonseed oils. It kills ants on contact within 30 minutes, and does not leave a staining residue.
We also like that this pet safe ant killer leaves behind a delightful smell as opposed to a chemical odor after being sprayed. This is likely due to the clove oil it uses.
While this spray is a pet safe ant killer, it’s important to remember that it is still a pest control product and you should keep it out of reach of children and pets. Remember to read the ingredients and use it only as directed.
MDX Concepts Peppermint OIl Spray
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Another tried and tested spray we like when it comes to the best pet safe ant killer is made by MDX Concepts. This spray, like many of the sprays above, works by using essential oils like peppermint oil. It not only works on ants, but also other indoor pests like roaches, spiders, stink bugs, silverfish, fleas and even scorpions.
The spray comes in a 16 ounce container and while it can be used outdoors, we like it best for indoor use because it is best as a targeted spray control.
It works quickly and kills pests on contact, and the lingering peppermint scent will help keep ants from coming back any time soon. This spray is safe for pets, people and the environment as it contains no chemicals or artificial ingredients that can be harmful.
Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Spray
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Another product we recommend as a pet safe ant killer indoors is made by Wondercide. Wondercide Indoor Pest control Spray uses essential oils like cedar oil, peppermint oil, lemongrass oil or rosemary oil to deter and prevent pests inside the home.
This product is completely natural and totally safe for pets, people and the environment. It also works against spiders, fleas, roaches and flies.
We really like that this product specifically states it is safe for both dogs and cats. It will not irritate them with harsh odors either, and can even be used on bedding as well as floors and other unique surfaces.
In fact, Wondercide is so safe it can be used effectively in kitchens and other areas where food is stored or prepared. You can also spray it directly on ornamental plants to keep garden pests from devouring them.
Pet Resistant Ant Bait Stations
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While not completely pet proof, this is a pet safe ant killer product you might consider if you’re looking for bait stations or products that work to kill the entire colony of ants inside your home.
Because most ants you see are scout ants and the majority of ants are coming from a colony of hundreds, you’ll want a product that works to target the queen. If this is the case for you, you might need to consider an ant bait station.
Unfortunately, most ant bait stations use a chemical ingredient that can be harmful to pets and children. The good news is that you can find bait stations that are tamper resistant to help keep your furry family members safe.
This is the case for these pet safe ant killer products, as they are tamper resistant and come in orders of one, three, ten and twelve and work to kill the queen and the colony within 24 hours.
Of course, it is still important to use these ant killer products only as directed and to keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Raid Ant and Roach Killer
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Raid is a popular pest control spray known for making a variety of chemical-based products. However, they have also released an effective and pet safe ant killer that uses essential oils and other natural ingredients to deter pests. We like this product because it also works against other pests like roaches using lemongrass oil and other ingredients.
The product works on contact to kill pests and can even remove or reduce the scent trail left behind by scout ants.
However, not all ingredients in this spray are safe in large amounts so it’s important to keep it out of reach of children and pets when you are not using it.
Make sure to read the instructions and use this product only as directed.
Best Pet Safe Ant Killer For Outside Of My Home
Pets that play or roam outside are at risk of exposure to insecticides, which is why you may choose to use an ant killer that is safe.
Ants become most problematic when we notice them inside our homes. However, and as we mentioned above, an ant infestation truly begins outdoors. If you want to keep ants out of your home, you should start by using a product that repels them from your property in general.
Of course, if you have pets, this could be easier said than done. Many outdoor pest control products can be dangerous for our furry friends, and some may even require a wait time before you can let your pet outside to play.
If you’re looking for an easier solution and pet safe ant killer for outdoor use that is truly safe for people, pets and the environment, then keep reading.
Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Spray
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If you are considering investing in the indoor spray by Wondercide, you might also want to consider their outdoor spray as well. This is another pet safe ant killer that is specifically designed for outdoor use as a perimeter spray and will protect your property from ants, roaches, mosquitoes, chiggers, crickets, no-see-ums, gnats, beetles and other pests.
It is safe for beneficial insects, however, like butterflies and honeybees. It is also safe to spray directly on ornamental plants, gardens and even edible vegetation and fruit trees.
This product works against fleas and flying pests as well, which is always a plus. Best of all, it is completely safe for children and pets and there is no wait time once you spray it.
The product treats up to 5,000 square feet and works for several weeks when applied correctly.
Diatomaceous Earth Crawling Insect Killer
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Diatomaceous Earth, also known as DE, is a natural compound made from fossilized algae. It comes in powder form and is an effective and all natural pet safe ant killer that kills on contact. It works both inside and outside of the home, and is perfectly safe to use around people and animals while also being environmentally friendly.
The only problem with Diatomaceous Earth is that it does not work as effectively once it gets wet. This can be problematic for those who live in wetter areas or in climates that rain in abundance. However, if it does get wet you can simply reapply it.
This product includes a pump duster for easy application in smaller spaces inside the home, but we like this product for outside because it can be sprinkled around gardens and along the perimeter of your yard. You can also sprinkle DE directly over ant colonies and ant hills outside.
Diatomaceous Earth works by coating the ant’s waxy exoskeleton, which then dehydrates and kills the ants. However, the powder is not deadly for beneficial insects and is completely harmless to pets and children.
Combat Tamper Resistant Ant Bait Stations
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As we mentioned briefly above, you might need a stronger pet safe ant killer if you’re looking to eliminate ant colonies or get to the queen. One of the most effective methods of removal for entire ant colonies outdoors is to use bait stations.
Unfortunately, bati stations often use chemicals that can be harmful to pets and children, which is why it’s important to invest in tamper-proof stations if you do decide to go this route.
When looking for the best pet safe ant killer bait stations to use outdoors, we would consider the Combat Tamper Resistant Ant Bait Stations listed above.
While you can use these bait stations for both indoor and outdoor use, we like them for outdoor use because you can place themes specifically in areas you have noticed ant activity in your yard and be confident the ants will be taken care of shortly.
Of course, when using any pet safe ant killer, it’s important to know how many bait stations you placed and where you placed them. Monitor your pets around them when letting them outside and remove the bait stations once you no longer need them.
How To Make A Pet Safe Ant Killer At Home – DIY Methods
You can use essential oils and other household ingredients to make a safe and effective ant killer at home.
Finding a pet safe ant killer can be difficult, especially as so many options require the use of poison baits and bait stations that could be tempting for pets to chew on or try to play with. The good news is that there are plenty of home remedies you can use to repel and kill ants safely using non-toxic ingredients you may already have in your home.
Take a look!
Use Essential Oils To Make Your Own Pet Safe Ant Killer Spray
There are several types of essential oils you can use to repel and kill ants. Not only is using an essential oil a safe alternative to using pesticides and insecticides, but it’s also a pleasant smelling and pet safe ant killer solution you and your whole family will love.
Some of the most common essential oils used to repel ants include:
- Peppermint Oil
- Tea Tree OIl
- Eucalyptus Oil
- Cinnamon Oil
- Citronella Oil
- Lemon Oil
- Neem Oil
To get the most out of using essential oil to repel ants, you have two options. You can either saturate cotton balls in the oil of your choice and leave the cotton balls around your home and garden to repel the pests. Or you can combine 10 to 20 drops of the essential oil in two cups of water in a spray bottle and spray around your property as needed.
Sprinkle Cayenne Pepper Around Your Yard as A Perimeter Protectant
Cayenne pepper is a good product to use to keep pests at bay because it is not dangerous to people, pets or the environment. However, we do recommend you use it with caution, especially when looking for the best pet safe ant killer products on the market.
While cayenne pepper won’t be fatal to your pets, it can irritate their eyes and nose. If you plan on using this method, use it with caution and only apply it in areas your pets don’t frequent often.
Try Pouring Boiling Water In The Ant Hills
Another (mostly) pet safe ant killer option is to use boiling water. This is, of course, a risky endeavor if you’re not careful, but it does work well to kill ants immediately. To use this method, simply locate the ant hill outside of your home and pour boiling water directly into the entrance holes.
Repeat this process a few times to ensure you kill all the ants inside, and then go about ensuring you follow other tips below to keep ants front coming back.
Use Cornstarch or Chalk
If you like the idea of using Diatomaceous Earth, you might also be happy to know that cornstarch and chalk work similarly. Because of their dry, chalky makeup, ants prefer to avoid going through these types of substances.
You can use cornstarch or chalk as a pet safe ant killer by smothering ants directly with the products, or you can use the products as a barrier inside and outside of your home. However, like Diatomaceous Earth, this method works best when these products are dry.
Clean With Vinegar
White vinegar not only deters ants, but it also gets rid of ant scent trails left behind by scout ants. To use this method, you can combine two cups of white vinegar with one cup of water. You may even consider adding a few drops of an essential oil of your choice to add some extra power.
Then spray along the surfaces of your home and even outside around the perimeter of your home to repel ants safely and effectively.
Mix Boric Acid and Sugar
Boric Acid is often used as a household cleaner or detergent, but it also works to kill ants and other pests when ingested.
This product is safe for people and pets, but it should still be used with caution, especially when mixed with sugar. To use this method, combine the sugar and boric acid and leave small dishes around the areas you have noticed ant activity.
Ants will ingest the toxic mixture and then bring it back to the queen. When ants go to get a drink, the boric acid will expand inside of them, killing them.
Expert Tips And Tricks For Keeping Ants Away For Good
You can help keep ants at bay by following a few simple tips and tricks.
Clean With Glass Cleaner, Soap, or Liquid Detergent
This seems like a simple solution, but if you do notice ants are in your home or you see a scout ant or two, pull out your glass cleaner or soak a rag in liquid detergent. Clean up the areas where you noticed the pests in order to remove the scent trail left behind. Then use any of the pet safe ant killer products listed above to help get rid of these pests for good.
Plant Ant Repellent Plants In Your Garden
Some ant repellent plants can work wonders, but if you have curious pets that dig up your garden or tend to eat weird things, you may not want to use this method. Not all pest repellent plants are pet safe, so make sure you do your research first before companion planting outside.
Use An Ultrasonic Sound Machine
Another great way you can go about repelling and preventing ants in your home is by using an ultrasonic pest repeller plug in.
Ultrasonic Pest Repellent
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The product above uses ultrasonic sound waves that emit vibrations which are highly irritating to pests but harmless to people and animals.
This product works for 800 to 1,200 feet and keeps a number of pests at bay including roaches, spiders, earwigs, centipedes and even rodents.
Best of all, this is a no-maintenance form of pest control that is easy to use. Simply plug it in and walk away.
Other methods for ant control and removal include:
- Using Cedar Chips Instead of Wood Mulch
- Keeping Up With Routine Landscaping
- Keeping Plants and Foliage At Least Three Feet From Your Siding
- And Using a Year-Round Pest Control Product
So, what do you think about the best pet safe ant killer products on our above list? Are there any great ones you think we may have missed? Let us know your thoughts below in the comment section.
Best of luck and thanks for reading!
Jack founded our blog after two decades of working in the pest control industry. His vast experience dealing with a wide array of pests allows him to diagnose issues quickly and get to the heart of pest problems quickly and effectively. He has serviced more than 2,000 homes over his career and there is hardly any pest situation that he has not seen before.