A cat has fleas: how to treat the apartment?

A cat has fleas: how to treat the apartment? - briefly

Treat the cat with a veterinarian‑approved flea product, then vacuum every carpet, rug, upholstery seam and floor crevice, discarding the vacuum bag immediately. Wash all bedding and washable fabrics in hot water and apply a labeled environmental insecticide to remaining surfaces.

A cat has fleas: how to treat the apartment? - in detail

When a feline host is infested with fleas, the entire residence must be addressed to prevent reinfestation. The following steps outline a comprehensive approach.

1. Immediate pet treatment

   • Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral adulticide.
   • Repeat the dose according to the product’s schedule (usually 30 days).
   • Bathe the animal with a flea‑specific shampoo if recommended by a professional.

2. Remove adult fleas from the environment

   • Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
   • Steam‑clean hard floors and washable fabrics at temperatures above 50 °C to kill insects and eggs.
   • Wash the cat’s bedding, blankets, and any removable covers in hot water, then tumble‑dry on high heat.

3. Treat the dwelling with insecticides

   • Use a residual spray formulated for indoor use, targeting cracks, baseboards, under furniture, and pet sleeping zones.
   • Follow label instructions for concentration, ventilation, and re‑entry time.
   • Consider applying a flea growth regulator (IGR) to interrupt the life cycle; these products affect eggs and larvae without harming the pet.

4. Control larval habitats

   • Reduce humidity in carpets and upholstery by keeping indoor humidity below 50 %; use a dehumidifier if necessary.
   • Sprinkle a fine layer of diatomaceous earth on carpets, leave for several hours, then vacuum.
   • Seal cracks and crevices in walls and flooring to eliminate shelter for developing stages.

5. Maintain ongoing prevention

   • Continue monthly prophylactic medication for the cat.
   • Vacuum high‑traffic areas weekly for at least four weeks.
   • Replace or rotate treated areas with fresh insecticide applications according to product guidelines, typically every 2–4 weeks.

By executing these measures systematically, the infestation can be eradicated from both the animal and the living space, ensuring a flea‑free environment.