What should be done if fleas appear in the house from cats? - briefly
Administer a veterinarian‑approved «flea treatment» to the cats and launder all fabrics in hot water. Vacuum every carpet and upholstery, discard the vacuum bag, and apply a labeled indoor insecticide to eliminate remaining pests.
What should be done if fleas appear in the house from cats? - in detail
Fleas introduced by cats require immediate, coordinated action to eliminate the insects and prevent reinfestation.
First, treat the animals. Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea medication to each cat. Repeat the treatment according to the product’s schedule, typically every 30 days, to break the life cycle. Use a fine‑toothed flea comb daily; dispose of collected insects in soapy water to kill them.
Second, address the indoor environment.
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, upholstery, and cracks in flooring thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
- Apply an environmental insecticide spray or fogger that targets flea eggs, larvae, and pupae; follow label instructions regarding ventilation and dwell time.
- Place flea traps (e.g., sticky pads with attractant) near pet resting areas to monitor residual activity.
Third, maintain preventive measures.
- Keep cats indoors or limit outdoor exposure to reduce contact with flea‑infested wildlife.
- Use monthly preventive collars or spot‑on treatments on the pets.
- Inspect the home weekly for signs of fleas (live insects, dark specks of feces) and repeat environmental treatments if necessary.
Finally, seek professional assistance if the infestation persists after two treatment cycles. A pest‑control specialist can provide targeted applications and assess hidden sources, while a veterinarian can adjust the pet‑focused regimen based on health status.
Consistent implementation of these steps interrupts the flea life cycle at all stages, ensuring complete eradication and long‑term protection.