Fleas are biting in the apartment: what should I do? - briefly
Begin by vacuuming carpets, upholstery, and floor seams, then launder bedding and clothing in hot water; apply an indoor‑approved flea insecticide to baseboards, pet areas, and hidden cracks. If bites continue, contact a professional pest‑control service for comprehensive treatment.
Fleas are biting in the apartment: what should I do? - in detail
Fleas in a dwelling cause uncomfortable bites and can quickly spread to pets and humans. Immediate control is essential to prevent infestation from worsening.
First, identify the source. Inspect pets for fleas, especially around the neck, tail base, and under the belly. Use a fine‑toothed flea comb; any live insects or dark specks (flea dirt) confirm a problem.
Next, treat the animals. Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral product that kills adult fleas and interrupts their life cycle. Follow the label instructions precisely; repeat treatment according to the recommended schedule.
Remove adult insects from the environment. Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, upholstered furniture, and cracks in flooring. After each session, seal the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outside the home. Steam‑cleaning upholstery and mattresses adds extra mortality.
Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable fabric covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Heat kills eggs, larvae, and pupae that may be hidden.
Apply an environmental insecticide labeled for indoor flea control. Choose a product that contains an adulticide (e.g., permethrin, bifenthrin) and an insect growth regulator (e.g., methoprene, pyriproxyfen). Spray along baseboards, under furniture, and in cracks where fleas hide. Use a low‑odor, residual formulation to maintain effectiveness for several weeks.
Seal entry points that allow wild animals or insects to enter the building. Repair torn screens, close gaps around doors, and ensure windows are properly sealed.
Monitor progress. Place sticky flea traps near suspected activity zones; replace them weekly to gauge reduction. Continue vacuuming and washing routine for at least four weeks, as flea eggs can remain dormant for up to two weeks before hatching.
If bites persist despite these measures, consult a medical professional for appropriate skin treatment and consider hiring a licensed pest‑control operator for a comprehensive assessment.