What should be done if fleas are biting in the house? - briefly
Treat pets with an appropriate flea medication and launder all bedding in hot water. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks thoroughly, then apply an EPA‑registered indoor flea spray or fogger following the label directions.
What should be done if fleas are biting in the house? - in detail
Fleas biting indoors require a systematic response to eliminate the insects, relieve skin irritation, and prevent recurrence.
First, confirm the presence of fleas by checking pets, bedding, and carpet fibers for adult insects, flea dirt, or larvae. Use a fine‑toothed comb on animals and a white sheet under a lamp to spot moving fleas.
Second, provide immediate relief for bitten skin. Apply over‑the‑counter antihistamine creams or oral antihistamines to reduce itching and inflammation. Wash affected areas with mild soap and cool water; avoid scratching to prevent infection.
Third, treat all animals in the household. Administer a veterinarian‑approved flea control product—topical spot‑on, oral medication, or a long‑acting collar—according to the species, weight, and age. Repeat the treatment as directed, typically every 30 days, to break the life cycle.
Fourth, eradicate the indoor environment.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and floor cracks thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Steam‑clean carpets and upholstery to reach all life stages of the parasite.
- Apply a residual insecticide labeled for indoor flea control to baseboards, cracks, and pet resting areas, following label instructions and safety precautions.
Fifth, address outdoor sources if pets have access to yards. Trim grass, remove leaf litter, and treat shaded areas with an appropriate outdoor flea spray or granules.
Sixth, consider professional pest‑control services when infestation is severe or persists despite DIY measures. Certified technicians can apply bulk treatments, such as foggers or professional‑grade insect growth regulators, that target eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults simultaneously.
Finally, implement preventive habits. Maintain regular veterinary flea prophylaxis, keep indoor spaces clean, and limit pet access to untreated outdoor environments. Consistent monitoring and prompt action at the first sign of biting will keep the household flea‑free.