What to do if there are ticks at home? - briefly
Locate and remove any visible ticks using fine‑point tweezers, then disinfect the affected area. Treat pets, vacuum thoroughly, and apply a suitable indoor acaricide to prevent further infestation.
What to do if there are ticks at home? - in detail
Discovering ticks inside a dwelling requires immediate, systematic action to protect occupants and prevent further infestation. Begin with a thorough inspection of all rooms, focusing on seams, cracks, and hidden corners where arthropods hide. Use a flashlight to examine baseboards, under furniture, and in pet bedding. Any visible specimens should be captured with tweezers, grasping the tick close to the skin, then placed in a sealed container for identification and disposal.
Next, eliminate the source. Remove clutter such as piles of laundry, cardboard boxes, and pet toys that provide shelter. Vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered surface, pausing to empty the canister or bag into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors. Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabric items in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
Treat the environment with an appropriate acaricide. Choose a product labeled for indoor tick control, following label directions precisely. Apply to cracks, baseboards, and any cracks in walls or floors where ticks may reside. After treatment, keep windows closed and maintain ventilation to reduce inhalation risk. Repeat application according to the product’s schedule, typically every two to four weeks during peak tick season.
Address pet involvement, as animals often transport ticks indoors. Groom pets daily, checking ears, neck, and underbelly. Use veterinarian‑approved tick preventatives—collars, spot‑on treatments, or oral medications—consistent with the animal’s health status. Wash pet bedding and grooming tools with hot water and disinfect them regularly.
Implement ongoing monitoring. Place sticky traps or tick detection devices in low‑traffic areas to gauge residual activity. Conduct monthly visual inspections, especially after outdoor excursions or seasonal changes. If infestations persist despite these measures, consult a licensed pest‑control professional for a comprehensive evaluation and targeted intervention.