How can fleas that appeared in an apartment be eliminated? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑approved insecticide spray to carpets, furniture, and cracks, then wash all bedding and fabrics in hot water and vacuum every room, discarding the vacuum bag afterward. Repeat the treatment after seven days to break the flea life cycle and prevent re‑infestation.
How can fleas that appeared in an apartment be eliminated? - in detail
Fleas in a residential unit require a systematic approach that targets the insects, their eggs, and the environment that supports their development.
First, confirm the infestation by checking pets, bedding, and carpet edges for adult fleas, larvae, or dark specks (feces). Use a fine‑toothed comb on animals and inspect the fur for movement.
Second, treat all host animals. Administer a veterinarian‑approved adulticide, such as a topical spot‑on product or an oral medication, following the dosage schedule precisely. Repeat the treatment after seven days to eliminate newly hatched fleas.
Third, eliminate the immature stages in the living space:
- Vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered surface thoroughly. Focus on seams, under furniture, and pet sleeping areas. Immediately dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the canister with hot, soapy water.
- Wash all removable fabrics—bedding, curtains, pet blankets—at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher. Dry on the hottest setting for at least 30 minutes.
- Apply an insect growth regulator (IGR) spray to cracks, baseboards, and floor joints. IGRs prevent eggs and larvae from maturing, breaking the life cycle.
- If the infestation is severe, use a residual adulticide labeled for indoor use. Follow label instructions for concentration, ventilation, and re‑application intervals.
Fourth, control humidity and temperature, as fleas thrive in warm, moist conditions. Keep indoor humidity below 50 % and maintain a temperature around 20 °C (68 °F) when possible.
Fifth, implement preventive measures to avoid recurrence:
- Continue monthly flea prophylaxis on pets.
- Regularly vacuum high‑traffic areas and wash pet bedding.
- Inspect new animals before introducing them to the home.
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and baseboards to reduce entry points for stray insects.
By combining direct treatment of hosts, aggressive environmental decontamination, and ongoing prevention, a complete eradication of fleas from an apartment can be achieved.