How to get rid of fleas in the house that came from cats? - briefly
First, give the cat a veterinarian‑approved flea medication to eliminate the source of eggs. Then, wash all bedding, vacuum carpets and upholstery, and apply a residual insecticide spray or fogger throughout the home according to label instructions.
How to get rid of fleas in the house that came from cats? - in detail
Fleas introduced by a cat can infest carpets, furniture, bedding, and cracks in flooring. Effective eradication requires simultaneous treatment of the animal, the indoor environment, and any outdoor access points.
First, treat the cat. Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea medication—topical spot‑on, oral tablet, or collar—according to the label dosage. Repeat the application after the life cycle of eggs hatches (typically 7‑10 days) to kill emerging adults. Consult a professional if the pet shows signs of irritation or allergic reaction.
Second, eliminate eggs, larvae, and pupae from the home:
- Vacuum every carpet, rug, upholstered seat, and floor crevice. Use a hose attachment to reach baseboards and under furniture. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and place it in an outdoor trash bin.
- Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Heat destroys all life stages.
- Steam‑clean carpets and upholstery. Steam at temperatures above 70 °C penetrates deep fibers, killing hidden stages.
- Apply an insect growth regulator (IGR) spray labeled for indoor use. IGRs such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen prevent eggs from developing into adults, breaking the reproductive cycle.
- Use a residual adulticide spray or fogger in accordance with manufacturer instructions. Focus on cracks, under furniture, and along baseboards where pupae commonly hide.
Third, control the outdoor environment if the cat has outdoor access:
- Trim grass and vegetation around the house to reduce shelter for adult fleas.
- Treat outdoor resting spots with a pet‑safe flea spray or diatomaceous earth, which dehydrates insects.
Finally, maintain preventive measures:
- Continue monthly flea medication on the cat.
- Vacuum weekly for the first month, then biweekly.
- Inspect pets regularly for signs of fleas, using a fine‑toothed comb.
By addressing the host, the indoor habitat, and potential re‑infestation sources, the flea population can be eliminated and future outbreaks prevented.