Fleas have appeared in the house: how to deal with them? - briefly
Remove adult fleas and eggs by vacuuming all carpets and upholstery, laundering bedding in hot water, and applying a licensed indoor insecticide; simultaneously treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved product and repeat the treatment after 7‑10 days to interrupt the life cycle.
Fleas have appeared in the house: how to deal with them? - in detail
Fleas inside a residence require a systematic approach that eliminates the insects, treats the host animals, and prevents recurrence.
First, confirm the presence of fleas by inspecting bedding, carpets, and pet fur. Look for adult insects, small dark specks (flea dirt), or irritated skin on pets. Collect a few specimens for accurate identification if uncertainty remains.
Second, treat the animals. Use a veterinarian‑approved adulticide such as a topical solution, oral tablet, or collar. Apply the product according to the label, ensuring coverage of the entire body surface. Repeat the treatment after the life cycle stage of eggs hatches, typically in 7–10 days, to kill emerging adults.
Third, address the environment. Follow these steps:
- Vacuum all floors, rugs, and upholstery daily for two weeks. Immediately empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed bag and discard.
- Wash all removable fabrics—bedding, curtains, pet blankets—at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher. Use a dryer on the hottest setting for at least 30 minutes.
- Apply a residual insecticide spray or fogger labeled for indoor flea control to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. Choose a product containing an adulticide (e.g., permethrin) and an insect growth regulator (IGR) to interrupt development.
- Treat outdoor zones where pets frequent: clean dog runs, trim vegetation, and apply a pet‑safe IGR to reduce re‑infestation from the yard.
Fourth, monitor progress. Set sticky traps near pet sleeping areas and check weekly for live fleas or eggs. Continue vacuuming and cleaning until traps capture no insects for two consecutive weeks.
Finally, establish preventive measures:
- Maintain a regular schedule of veterinary flea preventatives for all pets.
- Keep carpets and upholstery free of clutter to facilitate thorough cleaning.
- Use seasonal indoor treatments if local climate favors flea activity.
- Inspect new animals before introducing them to the home.
By integrating host treatment, rigorous environmental sanitation, and ongoing prevention, a household can eradicate fleas and sustain a flea‑free environment.