How can you get rid of fleas from animals and the house? - briefly
Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved oral or topical flea medication, then clean the environment by washing bedding, vacuuming carpets, and applying an EPA‑registered flea spray or fogger to cracks, upholstery, and pet areas. Repeat the treatment after seven days to interrupt the flea life cycle and prevent re‑infestation.
How can you get rid of fleas from animals and the house? - in detail
Fleas must be eradicated from both the host animal and the surrounding environment to break the life cycle.
Treat the animal first. Apply a veterinarian‑approved product such as a topical spot‑on (e.g., fipronil, imidacloprid), an oral systemic medication (e.g., nitenpyram, afoxolaner), or a prescription collar. Follow the label for dosage, repeat intervals, and weight limits. Bathe the pet with a flea‑killing shampoo, allowing the lather to remain for the recommended time before rinsing. Comb the coat with a fine‑toothed flea comb; discard each captured flea in soapy water.
Address the indoor setting.
- Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, upholstered furniture, and cracks in flooring. Immediately empty the vacuum canister or bag into a sealed bag and discard it outside.
- Wash all pet bedding, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Apply an EPA‑registered indoor flea spray or fogger that contains an adulticide (e.g., permethrin) and an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen. Treat baseboards, under furniture, and pet resting spots. Follow the product’s ventilation and re‑entry time.
- For severe infestations, consider a professional pest‑control service that can apply residual treatments and conduct a thorough inspection.
Prevent re‑infestation.
- Continue monthly preventive medication on the animal as directed.
- Keep the home dry; reduce humidity that favors flea development.
- Trim outdoor grass and remove debris where fleas may thrive.
- Regularly vacuum and wash pet linens to eliminate eggs and larvae before they mature.
The flea life cycle spans 2–3 weeks under optimal conditions. By simultaneously treating the host, eliminating eggs/larvae in the environment, and maintaining preventive measures, the population is interrupted and eradicated within one to two treatment cycles.