The house is full of fleas: what should I do? - briefly
Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea product, vacuum all carpets and upholstery, wash bedding and fabrics in hot water, then apply a labeled indoor flea spray or fogger according to the instructions.
The house is full of fleas: what should I do? - in detail
When a dwelling becomes heavily infested with fleas, immediate, systematic action is required to eliminate the pests and prevent recurrence.
First, identify all sources. Inspect bedding, carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring. Examine pets for adult fleas, larvae, and eggs; use a fine-toothed comb to collect specimens for confirmation.
Second, treat the environment.
- Vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered piece thoroughly; dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Wash all removable fabrics—sheets, pillowcases, curtains—at the highest safe temperature.
- Apply a registered flea spray or fogger designed for indoor use, following label instructions for dosage, ventilation, and re‑entry time. Target cracks, baseboards, and pet bedding.
Third, address animals. Administer a veterinarian‑approved flea control product—topical, oral, or collar—according to the pet’s weight and health status. Treat all animals simultaneously; repeat the treatment after the life cycle’s first 7‑10 days to kill emerging adults.
Fourth, manage the life cycle. Flea eggs hatch within 2‑7 days, larvae develop in 5‑10 days, and pupae emerge after 1‑2 weeks. Maintain a cleaning schedule of vacuuming and laundering for at least three weeks to interrupt development. Use a larvicide dust in inaccessible areas if necessary.
Fifth, establish long‑term prevention.
- Keep pets on continuous preventive medication.
- Reduce indoor humidity to below 50 % to create an unfavorable environment for larvae.
- Seal cracks and crevices in flooring and walls to limit hiding places.
- Conduct quarterly inspections and spot treatments as soon as any signs appear.
By following these steps—source identification, thorough environmental treatment, comprehensive pet care, life‑cycle interruption, and preventive maintenance—the infestation can be eradicated and future outbreaks avoided.