What should be done if fleas appear in the house?

What should be done if fleas appear in the house? - briefly

Vacuum carpets, rugs, and furniture thoroughly, then wash pet bedding and household linens in hot water. Administer a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment to pets and apply a residual indoor flea spray to cracks, baseboards, and other hiding places.

What should be done if fleas appear in the house? - in detail

If fleas are detected inside the residence, begin with a thorough inspection to locate infested zones. Focus on areas where pets rest, carpeted flooring, upholstered furniture, and cracks in flooring or baseboards. Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on animals and examine bedding for dark specks.

1. Immediate removal of adult insects

   • Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstery; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
   • Wash pet bedding, blankets, and any removable fabric at ≥ 60 °C; dry on high heat.
   • Apply a residual insecticide spray labeled for indoor flea control to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture, following label directions precisely.

2. Treatment of companion animals

   • Administer a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral adulticide to each pet; repeat according to product schedule.
   • Use a flea‑comb daily for at least two weeks, disposing of collected insects in hot, soapy water.
   • Consider a long‑acting preventive collar or monthly medication to maintain protection.

3. Environmental sanitation

   • Reduce indoor humidity to below 50 % to hinder flea development; employ a dehumidifier if necessary.
   • Seal gaps around doors, windows, and utility openings to limit outdoor flea ingress.
   • Remove or trim outdoor vegetation that contacts the building foundation, as it can harbor adult fleas and larvae.

4. Larval control

   • Sprinkle an insect growth regulator (IGR) powder or fogger in carpeted areas and pet zones; IGRs prevent eggs and larvae from maturing.
   • After IGR application, repeat vacuuming to extract dead larvae and eggs.

5. Follow‑up monitoring

   • Place sticky flea traps in suspect locations for a week; assess trap catches to gauge residual activity.
   • Re‑vacuum and re‑treat with IGR after two weeks if traps still capture insects.
   • Continue preventive pet medication for at least three months to break the flea life cycle.

By executing these steps systematically, the infestation can be eliminated and the risk of recurrence minimized.