What to do if fleas appear at home and they are biting? - briefly
Treat the infestation immediately: vacuum all floors and upholstery, wash bedding and pet linens in hot water, then apply a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment to pets and a safe insecticide spray or fogger for the home, repeating the process after a week to break the life cycle. Monitor skin irritation and consult a doctor if bites worsen.
What to do if fleas appear at home and they are biting? - in detail
If fleas are present in your dwelling and are causing bites, begin with a systematic approach to eliminate the infestation and reduce discomfort.
First, confirm the problem. Flea bites appear as small, red, itchy papules, often around ankles and lower legs. Adult fleas are dark, wingless insects that move quickly through carpets, bedding, and pet fur.
Immediate actions:
- Wash all bedding, pet blankets, and removable upholstery covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum floors, rugs, upholstered furniture, and pet sleeping areas thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
- Bathe and treat all domestic animals with a veterinarian‑approved flea control product; repeat according to the product’s schedule.
- Apply a topical or oral flea medication to pets, ensuring dosage matches weight and species.
Environmental control:
- Sprinkle a regulated amount of insect growth regulator (IGR) powder or spray in cracks, baseboards, and under furniture; follow label instructions precisely.
- Use a flea fogger only in sealed rooms, adhering to safety precautions; ventilate the space after treatment.
- Replace or wash pet bedding weekly; keep pet grooming tools clean.
- Maintain low indoor humidity (30‑50 %) to hinder flea development.
Prevention measures:
- Continue monthly preventive medication for pets throughout the year.
- Perform weekly vacuuming of high‑traffic areas and dispose of debris promptly.
- Inspect new animals before introducing them to the household; treat if necessary.
- Keep lawns trimmed and avoid allowing pets to rest in dense vegetation where fleas thrive.
Professional assistance:
- Contact a licensed pest‑control operator if infestations persist after two treatment cycles, or if the bite reaction escalates to severe swelling or infection.
- Seek veterinary care if pets develop excessive scratching, hair loss, or signs of anemia.
By following these steps, the flea population can be suppressed, bites alleviated, and future outbreaks minimized.