What to do if fleas have laid eggs? - briefly
Immediately launder bedding, vacuum carpets and upholstery, then apply a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment to the pet and an EPA‑registered insecticide to the environment according to label instructions.
What to do if fleas have laid eggs? - in detail
When adult fleas release eggs, the infestation spreads rapidly because each female can lay up to 50 eggs per day. Immediate action is essential to halt development and protect pets and the home environment.
First, treat the animals. Apply a veterinarian‑approved adulticide that kills fleas on contact and prevents further egg production. Use a monthly topical or oral medication that also disrupts the life cycle. Follow the product’s dosage instructions precisely; under‑dosing allows survivors to continue reproducing.
Second, cleanse the living area. Perform these steps in the order listed:
- Vacuum all carpeted surfaces, rugs, and upholstery. Move the vacuum nozzle slowly to lift eggs, larvae, and pupae. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and place it in an outdoor trash bin.
- Wash bedding, pet blankets, and removable covers. Use hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and a high‑heat dryer cycle to destroy any stage of the flea.
- Apply an insect growth regulator (IGR) spray to cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. IGRs inhibit maturation of eggs and larvae, preventing emergence of adult fleas.
- Treat hard floors and non‑carpeted areas with a flea fogger or aerosol labeled for indoor use. Follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines, ventilating the space after treatment.
Third, address hidden habitats. Inspect pet sleeping spots, pet carriers, and storage boxes. Remove clutter that can harbor flea stages. Consider using flea‑specific powders or diatomaceous earth in crevices, spreading a thin layer and leaving it for several days before vacuuming.
Fourth, monitor progress. Continue weekly vacuuming for at least four weeks, as flea pupae can remain dormant for up to three months. Maintain the adulticide regimen on pets throughout this period to catch any newly emerged adults.
Finally, implement preventive measures. Keep pets on a consistent flea control program, regularly groom and inspect them for signs of infestation, and maintain a clean household environment. These practices reduce the likelihood of future egg deposition and keep the flea population at bay.