How should lice and fleas be treated? - briefly
Use a pediculicide shampoo or lotion on the hair, leave it on for the recommended time, rinse, and repeat the application after 7–10 days to break the lice life cycle. Apply a veterinary‑approved flea spray or powder to pets and their surroundings, then vacuum and launder bedding regularly to eliminate remaining insects.
How should lice and fleas be treated? - in detail
Treating head‑lice infestations requires a two‑step approach: chemical eradication and mechanical removal. Apply a pediculicide shampoo or lotion containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin, following label instructions for contact time. After the product dries, comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to extract live lice and nits; repeat the combing at 24‑hour intervals for three days. A second application of the same agent 7‑10 days after the first eliminates newly hatched lice that survived the initial treatment. Prescription options such as ivermectin or malathion are reserved for resistant cases; they demand strict adherence to dosage guidelines to avoid toxicity.
Safety considerations include verifying the product’s suitability for age and scalp condition, avoiding application to broken skin, and limiting repeated use to prevent resistance. Non‑chemical alternatives—wet combing with conditioner, suffocation methods using petroleum jelly, or dimethicone‑based lotions—provide options for individuals allergic to standard agents, though they often require more frequent sessions.
Flea management on companion animals combines systemic medication, topical treatments, and environmental control. Administer oral products containing spinosad, nitenpyram, or afoxolaner according to veterinary dosage; these agents act within hours to kill adult fleas on the host. Topical spot‑on formulations with fipronil, imidacloprid, or selamectin provide residual protection for up to four weeks. Insecticidal collars releasing permethrin or flumethrin offer continuous exposure, especially useful for outdoor pets. Regular grooming with a flea comb assists in removing adult insects and detecting early re‑infestation.
The indoor environment must be treated concurrently. Wash all bedding, blankets, and pet accessories in hot water (≥ 55 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring daily; discard the vacuum bag or seal the canister after use. Apply a residual insecticide spray or fogger labeled for indoor flea control, focusing on baseboards, under furniture, and pet resting areas. Flea traps using light and heat attract and capture adult insects, aiding monitoring efforts.
Preventive measures include monthly administration of the chosen pet product, routine inspection of hair and skin, and maintaining a clean living space. For households with children, educate caregivers to avoid sharing combs, hats, or bedding, and to perform weekly checks during peak season. Consistent application of these protocols reduces the likelihood of resurgence and minimizes health risks associated with both parasites.