What should be done if there are fleas in the house? - briefly
Treat pets with a veterinary‑approved flea product, then vacuum all carpets and upholstery, wash bedding in hot water, and apply a suitable indoor insecticide. Repeat the process after seven days to interrupt the flea life cycle and confirm eradication.
What should be done if there are fleas in the house? - in detail
If fleas have appeared in a residence, immediate action is required to protect occupants and pets and to prevent further spread.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Examine bedding, carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring. Use a fine-tooth comb on pets, checking the neck, tail base, and underbelly. Collect any visible insects in a sealed container for identification.
Next, address the environment.
- Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and furniture daily for at least two weeks; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister after each use.
- Apply a flea‑kill spray or fogger labeled for indoor use, following manufacturer instructions regarding dosage, ventilation, and dwell time.
- Treat cracks, baseboards, and under‑furniture spaces with a residual insecticide approved for indoor application.
Simultaneously, treat animals.
- Administer a veterinarian‑approved flea control product (topical, oral, or collar) to each pet.
- Bathe pets with a flea shampoo if recommended by the veterinarian.
- Repeat the treatment according to the product’s schedule, typically every four weeks, to break the life cycle.
Control the life cycle directly.
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth or a synthetic insect growth regulator on carpets and pet bedding; leave for 24–48 hours before vacuuming.
- Reduce humidity in the home, as fleas thrive in moist conditions; use dehumidifiers or improve ventilation.
Finally, monitor progress. Conduct weekly inspections for several months, focusing on the same high‑risk areas. Maintain regular pet treatments and household cleaning routines until no flea activity is detected for at least two consecutive weeks. Continuous vigilance prevents re‑infestation.