What should you do about fleas on a cat and in the house? - briefly
Treat the cat with a veterinarian‑approved flea product (topical, oral, or collar) and launder its bedding in hot water, then vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstery, disposing of the vacuum contents immediately. Follow up by applying an EPA‑registered indoor flea spray or fogger according to label directions to eradicate surviving pests.
What should you do about fleas on a cat and in the house? - in detail
Treat the cat first. Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea medication—topical spot‑on, oral tablet, or collar—according to the product’s dosing schedule. Ensure the pet is weighed accurately before selecting the dose. If the cat is young, pregnant, or has health issues, consult the vet for a suitable option. Repeat the treatment after the recommended interval (often 30 days) to break the flea life cycle.
Clean the living environment. Wash all bedding, blankets, and fabric toys in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly, then discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into an outdoor trash container. Use a flea spray or fogger labeled for indoor use, following label directions for room size and ventilation. Treat cracks, baseboards, and pet‑frequent areas with a residual insecticide if approved for indoor application.
Address outdoor sources. Trim grass and vegetation around the house to reduce shaded resting spots for adult fleas. Apply a pet‑safe outdoor flea control product to the yard, focusing on shaded areas, under decks, and around pet shelters. Remove stray animals from the property and limit wildlife access to feeding stations.
Implement ongoing prevention. Continue monthly flea medication on the cat to stop new infestations. Keep bedding and carpets clean with regular vacuuming. Inspect the pet weekly for signs of fleas—small, dark specks (flea dirt) or live insects—especially after outdoor excursions. Rotate or combine different control methods only under veterinary guidance to avoid resistance.
Monitor effectiveness. After two weeks, evaluate the cat’s coat and the home’s floor for live fleas. If counts remain high, repeat environmental treatment and verify correct application of the pet medication. Persistent problems may require professional pest‑control services that can treat hidden areas such as wall voids and basement insulation.