What should be done when fleas appear in the house? - briefly
Treat pets with a veterinarian‑approved flea medication, launder all bedding and upholstery in hot water, and vacuum every carpet and crevice, discarding the vacuum bag immediately; then apply an EPA‑registered indoor flea spray according to the label instructions. Monitoring for several weeks ensures complete eradication.
What should be done when fleas appear in the house? - in detail
Fleas discovered inside a dwelling require swift, systematic action to eliminate the infestation and prevent recurrence.
The first priority is to locate and treat the source. Inspect all pets for adult fleas, larvae, and eggs; use a veterinary‑recommended adulticide shampoo or topical medication. Follow the product’s dosage schedule precisely, and repeat treatment after seven days to break the life cycle.
Next, address the indoor environment.
- Vacuum all carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and cracks in flooring. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister to remove trapped insects.
- Wash bedding, pet blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Apply an EPA‑approved insect growth regulator (IGR) spray to carpets, baseboards, and concealed areas where larvae develop. Follow label instructions regarding concentration and ventilation.
- Treat pet sleeping areas with a residual flea spray designed for indoor use; allow the treated surface to dry before allowing pets back onto it.
If the infestation is extensive, consider professional pest‑control services that employ foggers or heat treatments compatible with residential settings.
Preventive measures maintain a flea‑free environment.
- Continue monthly preventive medication for all household animals.
- Keep outdoor yards trimmed and free of debris where adult fleas can thrive.
- Place diatomaceous earth or a synthetic flea barrier around the perimeter of the home, reapplying after heavy rain.
- Schedule regular vacuuming and laundering of pet bedding to disrupt any residual life stages.
By executing these steps in the order presented—source treatment, thorough decontamination, and ongoing prevention—the flea population can be eradicated and future outbreaks avoided.