Fleas in the apartment: how to deal with them at home? - briefly
Inspect and clean all bedding, carpets, and pet areas, washing fabrics at high temperature and vacuuming thoroughly. Apply a veterinary‑approved flea spray or powder to the environment and treat pets with appropriate medication to break the life cycle.
Fleas in the apartment: how to deal with them at home? - in detail
Flea infestations begin with adult insects laying eggs on pets, carpets, and bedding. Eggs hatch into larvae that develop in dark, humid areas, making the environment a breeding ground if left unchecked.
Identify the presence of fleas by spotting adult insects on pets, noticing small black specks (flea dirt) on fabrics, or observing itchy bites on skin. Use a fine-toothed comb on animals to collect specimens for confirmation.
Immediate actions:
- Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable upholstery covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and cracks in flooring thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately to prevent re‑infestation.
- Apply a topical or oral adulticide to each pet following veterinary guidelines; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to target emerging adults.
- Treat the indoor environment with an insect growth regulator (IGR) spray or powder that interrupts the life cycle of eggs and larvae. Focus on baseboards, under furniture, and pet sleeping areas.
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in thin layers on carpets and pet areas; leave for 24 hours before vacuuming to desiccate immature stages.
For severe cases, consider a professional pest‑control service that can apply residual insecticides and conduct a comprehensive assessment of hidden habitats such as wall voids and HVAC ducts.
Preventive measures:
- Keep pets on a regular flea‑prevention regimen year‑round.
- Maintain low indoor humidity (below 50 %) to deter egg and larval development.
- Perform weekly vacuuming and periodic washing of pet linens.
- Seal cracks and crevices in flooring and walls to eliminate shelter for larvae.
Consistent application of these steps interrupts the flea life cycle, eliminates existing populations, and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.