What should I do if fleas have appeared in the house on animals? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment to all pets and wash their bedding in hot water. Then vacuum carpets and upholstery thoroughly, followed by a licensed indoor insecticide applied according to the product label.
What should I do if fleas have appeared in the house on animals? - in detail
Fleas in a domestic setting require immediate, coordinated action on both the animal and the environment.
First, confirm the infestation by inspecting the pet’s coat, especially around the neck, tail base, and underbelly. Use a fine‑toothed comb to collect any moving insects or dark specks, which are flea feces.
Treat the animal promptly. Recommended steps include:
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral adulticide; products containing fipronil, imidacloprid, or nitenpyram are effective.
- Administer a monthly preventative to interrupt the life cycle.
- Bathe the pet with a flea‑killing shampoo if the veterinarian advises; follow the label’s contact time.
Address the indoor environment to eradicate eggs, larvae, and pupae. Essential measures:
- Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
- Wash bedding, blankets, and any removable fabric at ≥ 60 °C; dry on high heat.
- Apply an EPA‑registered indoor insecticide spray or fogger, targeting cracks, baseboards, and pet resting spots.
- Use diatomaceous earth or a flea growth inhibitor on carpets and pet areas, following safety instructions.
Prevent future infestations by maintaining a regular preventive regimen for all household animals, keeping living spaces clean, and monitoring for early signs of flea activity.
If symptoms such as itching, redness, or anemia appear, seek veterinary care without delay.