How to eliminate cat fleas from the house, what products to use? - briefly
Thorough cleaning plus a veterinary‑approved adulticide spray or fogger containing «permethrin» or «imidacloprid» eliminates infestations; vacuum carpets, wash all bedding at ≥60 °C, and treat the cat with an oral systemic medication. Regular use of a flea‑comb and repeat applications of the insecticide prevent re‑appearance.
How to eliminate cat fleas from the house, what products to use? - in detail
Eliminating cat fleas from a domestic environment requires a systematic approach that combines thorough cleaning, targeted treatment of the animal, and the application of appropriate insecticidal products.
The first step involves inspecting all areas where the cat spends time. Focus on carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and bedding. Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on the animal to collect adult insects and eggs. Collected material should be disposed of in a sealed bag and discarded outdoors.
Next, conduct a deep cleaning routine. Vacuum all floor coverings, paying special attention to edges and under furniture. Immediately empty the vacuum canister into a sealed container and dispose of it in an external trash receptacle. Wash all removable fabrics—including blankets, pillowcases, and pet bedding—in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and tumble dry on a high‑heat setting. Heat treatment kills all life stages of the flea.
Environmental insecticidal products can then be applied. Recommended categories include:
- Residual spray insecticides containing permethrin, bifenthrin, or deltamethrin. Apply to baseboards, cracks, and crevices; allow the treated surface to dry before re‑entering the room.
- Foggers (total‑release aerosols) labeled for flea control. Use only in unoccupied rooms; follow label instructions regarding ventilation and re‑entry time.
- Insecticidal powders such as diatomaceous earth or silica‑based formulations. Sprinkle lightly on carpets and upholstery; leave for several hours before vacuuming.
- Spot‑on treatments for the cat, featuring fipronil, imidacloprid, or selamectin. Apply directly to the skin at the base of the neck; ensure proper dosage based on the animal’s weight.
- Oral systemic medications containing nitenpyram, spinosad, or afoxolaner. Administer according to veterinary prescription; these agents kill fleas within hours after ingestion.
Natural alternatives may complement chemical methods but should be used with caution. «Diatomaceous earth, when applied dry, desiccates flea exoskeletons, reducing populations without toxic residues». Essential oils such as tea‑tree or lavender can repel fleas but may cause dermal irritation in cats; avoid direct application on the animal.
Finally, maintain a preventive schedule. Repeat vacuuming and washing cycles weekly for at least four weeks, as flea eggs may hatch during this period. Re‑apply residual sprays according to label intervals, typically every 30 days. Monitor the cat with a flea comb and consult a veterinarian if infestations persist despite adherence to the protocol.