How to get rid of fleas on a pet? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral «flea medication» and clean the pet’s bedding and surroundings with a flea‑killing shampoo or spray. Repeat the treatment according to the product’s schedule to interrupt the flea life cycle.
How to get rid of fleas on a pet? - in detail
Fleas infest a pet when adult insects lay eggs on the animal’s skin, especially near the neck and tail base. Eggs fall off, hatch into larvae, develop into pupae, and emerge as adults, creating a rapid cycle that spreads throughout the household.
Effective elimination requires simultaneous treatment of the animal, its environment, and ongoing prevention.
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral adulticide to kill existing fleas on the animal. Products containing fipronil, imidacloprid, or nitenpyridine are common choices. Follow label dosage and re‑application intervals precisely.
- Use a systemic medication that circulates in the bloodstream, allowing fleas to ingest the toxin during a blood meal. Options include spinosad, afoxolaner, or fluralaner. Verify safety for the specific species and age.
- Administer an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen to disrupt larval development. IGRs can be added to shampoos, sprays, or environmental foggers.
- Bathe the pet with a flea‑combining shampoo, then comb thoroughly with a fine‑toothed flea comb. Dispose of combed fleas in hot water to prevent re‑infestation.
- Vacuum all carpeted areas, upholstery, and pet bedding daily for at least two weeks. Immediately empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the home.
- Wash all removable fabrics—blankets, cushions, and pet carriers—at 60 °C or higher. Use a laundry additive containing an IGR if washing temperatures are lower.
- Treat the home with a residual spray or fogger that reaches cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. Select a product labeled for indoor use and follow safety precautions.
- Maintain a regular preventive schedule. Apply monthly topical preventatives or administer oral preventatives as directed by a veterinarian to stop new infestations before they mature.
Monitoring continues after treatment. Inspect the pet daily with a flea comb for at least four weeks. Record any live fleas and adjust the control plan if counts persist. Consistent adherence to the outlined regimen eliminates the current infestation and reduces the risk of future outbreaks.