Fleas in the house, what should be done? - briefly
Begin by vacuuming carpets, rugs, and upholstery, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister to eliminate eggs and larvae. Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea product, wash bedding in hot water, and apply an EPA‑approved indoor insecticide according to label directions.
Fleas in the house, what should be done? - in detail
Fleas can appear in any residence where pets or wildlife have access. Early identification prevents spread and reduces the need for extensive treatment.
Inspect bedding, carpets, and furniture for tiny, dark specks that move when disturbed. Use a fine-toothed comb on pets to locate adult insects or larvae. Light a white sheet on the floor; a few jumps indicate an active infestation.
Immediate actions:
- Vacuum all floor surfaces, upholstery, and pet sleeping areas; discard the bag or empty the canister into an outdoor trash container.
- Wash pet blankets, bedding, and removable covers at temperatures of at least 60 °C (140 °F).
- Bathe pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea shampoo; repeat according to product instructions.
Chemical control:
- Apply a residual insecticide spray labeled for indoor flea treatment to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. Follow label dosage and safety guidelines.
- Use flea foggers only when the entire dwelling can be sealed; remove or cover food, dishes, and pet supplies before activation.
- Consider indoor flea traps containing a light source and adhesive surface to monitor population levels.
Environmental management:
- Trim vegetation around the building to reduce wildlife contact.
- Seal entry points such as gaps under doors and windows.
- Maintain low indoor humidity (below 50 %) to hinder flea development.
Preventive measures:
- Keep pets on a regular monthly flea preventive regimen prescribed by a veterinarian.
- Schedule routine vacuuming; empty the vacuum container immediately after use.
- Perform quarterly inspections of pet resting places and surrounding areas.
Consistent application of these steps eliminates current infestation and minimizes the risk of recurrence.