How to get rid of fleas if there is a cat in the house? - briefly
Treat the cat with a veterinarian‑approved flea product and simultaneously cleanse the home by washing all bedding, vacuuming carpets and upholstery, and applying a pet‑safe insecticide spray to floors and furniture. Repeat the treatment and cleaning cycle weekly for four weeks to interrupt the flea life cycle.
How to get rid of fleas if there is a cat in the house? - in detail
Treat the cat first. Use a veterinarian‑approved flea medication—topical spot‑on, oral tablet, or collar—according to the animal’s weight and health status. Apply the product precisely as instructed; repeat the dose at the recommended interval to break the life cycle.
Sanitize the indoor environment.
- Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstery daily; dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister into an outdoor trash container.
- Wash the cat’s bedding, blankets, and any removable covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Sprinkle a flea‑killing powder or apply an aerosol spray labeled for indoor use on cracks, baseboards, under furniture, and pet‑frequented zones. Follow the manufacturer’s safety precautions, especially regarding ventilation and pet exposure.
- Treat curtains and drapes with a steam cleaner or a low‑toxicity insecticide spray.
Address the outdoor surroundings if the cat has access.
- Trim grass and vegetation around the house to reduce humidity, which favors flea development.
- Apply a pet‑safe outdoor flea control product to shaded areas, decks, and the perimeter of the yard.
- Remove debris, piles of leaves, and animal waste that serve as breeding sites.
Implement ongoing prevention.
- Maintain a regular schedule of flea prophylaxis for the cat, never skipping doses.
- Keep the home’s humidity below 50 % when possible; use dehumidifiers or proper ventilation.
- Inspect the pet weekly for signs of fleas—tiny moving specks on the fur or small dark spots (feces) on the skin—and treat promptly if any appear.
Consider professional assistance if infestation persists after two treatment cycles. Licensed pest control operators can apply residual indoor insecticides and provide guidance on safe product selection for homes with pets.