How to kill fleas if they appear at home? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑approved flea spray or fogger to carpets, bedding, and pet areas, then wash fabrics in hot water and vacuum thoroughly. Follow with a monthly preventive treatment for pets to prevent reinfestation.
How to kill fleas if they appear at home? - in detail
Fleas that invade a household require a coordinated approach that targets the insects on pets, in the living environment, and prevents re‑infestation.
First, treat all animals that may host adult fleas. Use a veterinarian‑approved adulticide such as a topical spot‑on (e.g., fipronil, imidacloprid) or an oral product (e.g., nitenpyram, afoxolaner). Apply the medication according to the package directions and repeat the treatment at the recommended interval to interrupt the flea life cycle.
Second, address the indoor environment where eggs, larvae, and pupae develop.
- Vacuum every carpet, rug, upholstered seat, and floor crevice daily for at least two weeks; immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
- Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Apply an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen to carpets, cracks, and baseboards; IGRs prevent immature stages from maturing.
- Use a residual spray labeled for indoor flea control on baseboards, under furniture, and in pet sleeping areas; follow label safety instructions and ventilate the space after application.
Third, consider supplemental natural measures when chemical use is limited.
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) thinly over carpets and pet areas; the abrasive particles desiccate larvae and pupae. Reapply after vacuuming or cleaning.
- Deploy flea traps that consist of a shallow dish of water with a few drops of liquid dish soap and a light source; adult fleas attracted to the light drown in the solution.
Finally, implement preventive actions to avoid recurrence.
- Maintain a regular schedule of pet flea prophylaxis throughout the year.
- Keep the home dry; reduce humidity below 50 % by using dehumidifiers, as moisture accelerates flea development.
- Seal cracks and gaps in flooring and walls that could harbor pupae.
By simultaneously treating hosts, eliminating immature stages in the environment, and establishing long‑term barriers, a complete eradication of a flea outbreak can be achieved.