What should be done if fleas came into the house from a cat? - briefly
Treat the cat with a veterinarian‑recommended flea treatment, then wash all bedding, carpets, and upholstery in hot water and vacuum thoroughly. Apply an approved environmental flea spray or fogger and repeat the cleaning process after seven days to interrupt the flea life cycle.
What should be done if fleas came into the house from a cat? - in detail
When a cat introduces fleas into a residence, immediate and systematic action is required to eliminate the insects and prevent recurrence.
First, treat the animal. Apply a veterinarian‑recommended flea medication—topical spot‑on product, oral tablet, or collar—according to the label dosage. Repeat the treatment after the life cycle stage that hatches from eggs (typically 7–10 days) to kill newly emerged adults.
Second, cleanse the cat’s 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; immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister with hot, soapy water. Use a steam cleaner on hard surfaces where possible.
Third, apply an insecticide spray or fogger designed for indoor flea control. Follow manufacturer instructions precisely, covering all rooms, baseboards, under furniture, and pet‑accessible areas. Maintain ventilation as directed and keep pets and children out of treated spaces for the required period.
Fourth, monitor progress. Check the pet daily for signs of live fleas or bite irritation. Inspect the home weekly by running a fine‑toothed flea comb over the cat’s coat and by placing sticky flea traps in corners. Continue treatment for at least four weeks to interrupt the full life cycle.
Finally, implement preventive measures. Keep the cat on a regular flea prophylaxis schedule prescribed by a veterinarian. Reduce outdoor exposure during peak flea seasons, and maintain a clean household by vacuuming regularly and laundering pet bedding weekly.
By following these steps—treating the animal, sanitizing the indoor environment, applying targeted insecticides, monitoring, and establishing ongoing prevention—the infestation can be eradicated and future outbreaks avoided.