How to get rid of ticks and fleas? - briefly
Apply veterinarian‑approved topical or oral treatments to pets, wash all bedding and fabrics in hot water, vacuum thoroughly, then treat the indoor environment with an EPA‑registered insecticide and repeat after two weeks to interrupt the life cycle.
How to get rid of ticks and fleas? - in detail
Effective control of ticks and fleas requires a multi‑step approach that targets the insects, their environment, and any host animals.
Begin with immediate treatment of pets. Apply veterinarian‑approved spot‑on products that contain ingredients such as fipronil, imidacloprid, or selamectin. Use oral medications containing afoxolaner or fluralaner for systemic protection. Ensure the dosage matches the animal’s weight and follow the recommended re‑application interval to break the life cycle.
Next, treat the indoor environment. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately. Wash pet bedding, blankets, and any removable fabric at temperatures above 60 °C (140 °F). Apply an insecticide spray or fogger that is labeled for indoor use against ticks and fleas, focusing on cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. Follow label instructions regarding ventilation and exposure time.
Address outdoor areas where infestations often originate. Trim grass and vegetation to a height of no more than 4 inches (10 cm) to reduce humidity, which favors tick development. Clear leaf litter, tall weeds, and brush piles. Apply a residual acaricide or insecticide to shaded, humid zones, paying special attention to the perimeter of the property and the underside of decks. In heavily infested yards, consider using a professional pest‑control service that can perform targeted spot treatments and provide a schedule for repeat applications.
Implement preventative measures to sustain a low‑infestation environment. Use monthly preventive collars or topical treatments on all pets. Keep pets groomed and regularly inspect their coats for attached parasites. Install a physical barrier, such as a fine‑mesh fence, to limit wildlife entry into the yard. Maintain proper drainage to prevent standing water, which creates favorable conditions for tick larvae.
Finally, monitor the situation. Set up sticky traps or use a tick‑drag cloth to sample outdoor tick activity weekly during peak seasons. Record findings and adjust treatment frequency accordingly. Consistent observation, combined with the outlined chemical and mechanical interventions, will suppress tick and flea populations and prevent re‑infestation.