There are are some ways to repel them. I poke holes in limes and insert cloves. This works if you hang enough of them in specific areas like around your door. I think the essential oils of lime and cloves will work and be safe for skin contact, but I have not tried it yet. I have heard many say skin so soft by avon works. Also, I have heard that lemongrass being the source of citronella oil will repel them as well. It is a tropical grass but I have known someone who grows it in a pot indoors in zone 6. I see it available for sale through the growers exchange and raintree nursery. Hope it helps. As for flies, I have an effective trap. Take an aluminum cat food can, that has the residue of the contents still in it, add water and a drop or two of dish soap. Place it in the sun, and see how many flies take the dive. The more cans you use the more effectively it works. I have also had success putting many cans in a large barrel of water with the meat residue and dish soap and have trapped thousands of flies in the summer. I would never buy fly traps because just by feeding the cats you will also get rid of the flies! Best wishes Farmgals!