How to get rid of fleas in an apartment if a cat brought them? - briefly
Treat the cat with a veterinarian‑approved flea product and launder all bedding, blankets, and washable fabrics in hot water. Then thoroughly clean carpets, upholstery, and cracks with a licensed indoor flea spray or fogger, repeating the treatment after one week.
How to get rid of fleas in an apartment if a cat brought them? - in detail
A cat that returns from outdoors often carries flea eggs and larvae, which quickly spread through carpets, upholstery, and cracks in the floor. Immediate action limits the infestation and reduces the risk of bites.
First, isolate the animal. Bathe the cat with a veterinary‑approved flea shampoo, following the label’s temperature and soaking time recommendations. Apply a topical adulticide (e.g., fipronil or imidacloprid) after the bath, ensuring the fur is dry. Repeat the treatment according to the product’s schedule, typically every month, to break the life cycle.
Next, treat the living space. Remove all removable fabrics (blankets, pillowcases, pet beds) and launder them in hot water (minimum 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered surface thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately to prevent re‑infestation. After vacuuming, apply a residual insecticide spray labeled for indoor use, covering cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. Follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions, allowing the treated areas to dry before re‑occupying the rooms.
Address hidden habitats. Place flea‑catching traps—small dishes of soapy water beneath lamps or near doors—to attract and drown adult fleas. Use a steam cleaner on carpets and upholstery; steam at temperatures above 50 °C kills eggs, larvae, and pupae without chemicals. For severe cases, consider a professional fumigation service that uses an integrated pest‑management approach.
Maintain a preventive routine. Feed the cat a diet that supports skin health, and schedule regular veterinary check‑ups for flea‑preventive medication. Keep windows screened, limit outdoor excursions during peak flea season, and clean pet bedding weekly. Regular vacuuming and washing of fabrics at high temperatures sustain a flea‑free environment.
By combining immediate cat treatment, thorough environmental decontamination, and ongoing preventive measures, a household can eradicate an infestation and prevent future outbreaks.