How can I fight fleas in the house that come from cats? - briefly
Treat the cat with a veterinarian‑recommended flea control product and wash all bedding, carpets, and upholstery using a flea‑killing spray or steam. Vacuum daily, discard the vacuum bag, and apply regular environmental insecticide treatments to prevent re‑infestation.
How can I fight fleas in the house that come from cats? - in detail
Treat the cats first. Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea collar, spot‑on treatment, or oral medication that kills adult fleas and prevents egg development. Follow the product’s dosing schedule without interruption, and repeat the application after the recommended interval to break the life cycle.
Clean the environment thoroughly. Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag after each session. Wash bedding, blankets, and any fabric the cats use in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Shampoo the floor with a flea‑killing solution approved for indoor use, then rinse and dry completely.
Address hidden stages of the parasite. Sprinkle a fine layer of diatomaceous earth or an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene on cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. Leave the product for several days, then vacuum again to remove dead insects and residues.
Consider chemical interventions when infestation is severe. Use a fogger or aerosol labeled for indoor flea control, ensuring the product is safe for pets and humans. Vacate the premises for the duration specified on the label, and ventilate thoroughly before re‑entry.
Implement preventive measures to stop recurrence. Keep cats groomed regularly with a flea comb, and trim nails to reduce skin trauma. Limit outdoor access or inspect cats after outdoor excursions, applying a topical repellent if needed. Maintain low indoor humidity (below 50 %) because fleas thrive in moist conditions.
Monitor progress. Check the cats daily for signs of flea activity—scratching, small dark specks (flea feces) on fur, or live insects. Use sticky traps placed near pet resting areas to gauge residual adult flea populations. Continue treatment cycles for at least four weeks, the length of the flea life cycle, to ensure eradication.