What should be done if a cat has fleas in the apartment? - briefly
Treat the cat with a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment and clean all bedding, carpets, and upholstery using hot water or an appropriate insecticide. Vacuum the entire apartment, discard the bag, and repeat the cleaning after a week to eradicate any remaining eggs and larvae.
What should be done if a cat has fleas in the apartment? - in detail
When a cat becomes infested with fleas inside a residence, immediate action is required to protect the animal, the occupants, and the environment.
Treat the cat first. Use a veterinarian‑approved product such as a flea shampoo, a topical spot‑on treatment, or an oral medication. Follow the label instructions precisely, applying the dose according to the cat’s weight. After treatment, comb the coat with a fine‑toothed flea comb to remove dead insects and eggs.
Sanitize the living space.
- Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Wash the cat’s bedding, blankets, and any removable fabric at the highest safe temperature.
- Apply a flea spray or fogger labeled for indoor use to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture; keep pets and people out of the treated rooms for the recommended period.
- Use a diatomaceous earth powder on carpets and pet areas, spreading a thin layer and leaving it for several hours before vacuuming.
Prevent recurrence.
- Schedule regular preventive medication for the cat, typically monthly, to interrupt the flea life cycle.
- Maintain a routine of weekly vacuuming and monthly laundering of pet bedding.
- Inspect the cat daily for signs of fleas, especially after outdoor excursions.
- Keep windows screened and limit unsupervised outdoor access to reduce exposure to external flea sources.
By combining prompt therapeutic measures, comprehensive environmental decontamination, and ongoing preventive practices, a flea infestation can be eliminated and future outbreaks avoided.