Fleas have multiplied at home: what should you do? - briefly
Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea medication, then clean the home thoroughly—vacuum carpets, wash bedding, and apply an EPA‑registered insecticide to cracks and baseboards. Repeat the treatment and cleaning weekly for three weeks to interrupt the flea life cycle.
Fleas have multiplied at home: what should you do? - in detail
Fleas reproducing inside a residence demand swift, systematic response.
Begin with thorough sanitation. Vacuum every carpet, rug, upholstery, and floor edge for at least ten minutes; discard the bag or empty the canister into a sealed container outside the home. Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabric covers in water hotter than 60 °C; dry on high heat.
Address the animal hosts. Administer an approved topical or oral flea‑preventive to each pet following the manufacturer’s dosage schedule. Groom pets with a fine‑toothed flea comb, removing visible insects and eggs. Treat the pet’s sleeping area with a pet‑safe spray or powder, allowing the product to reach cracks and crevices.
Control the indoor environment. Reduce humidity below 50 % using a dehumidifier or proper ventilation; fleas thrive in moist conditions. Seal gaps around baseboards, windows, and doors to limit entry points. Remove clutter that offers shelter for larvae.
Apply chemical or biological agents where necessary. Use a residual indoor insecticide labeled for flea control, applying it to baseboards, under furniture, and along wall edges. Follow label instructions for concentration, contact time, and re‑application intervals. For a non‑chemical alternative, distribute diatomaceous earth thinly on carpeted areas; it desiccates adult fleas and larvae.
Implement ongoing monitoring. Place sticky flea traps near pet resting spots and inspect them weekly. Continue vacuuming and laundering at least once a week for four weeks, then reduce frequency as infestation declines.
Maintain preventive routine. Keep pets on a year‑round flea‑preventive regimen, repeat environmental treatments seasonally, and inspect new pets before introduction to the household. A disciplined schedule prevents re‑establishment and safeguards the home against future outbreaks.