What to do to get rid of fleas? - briefly
Start by vacuuming carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding, then wash all washable items in hot water. Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea medication to the animals and treat the indoor environment with an EPA‑registered insecticide.
What to do to get rid of fleas? - in detail
Eliminating a flea infestation requires a coordinated approach that targets the insects on the animal, in the home, and in the surrounding environment.
First, treat the host animal. Use a veterinarian‑approved oral or topical product that kills adult fleas and interrupts the life cycle. Apply the medication exactly as directed, repeat the dose according to the label schedule, and treat all pets in the household simultaneously.
Second, cleanse the living spaces. Vacuum carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and cracks in flooring daily for at least two weeks. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and trash it. Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
Third, address dormant stages in the environment. Apply a residual insecticide spray or fogger labeled for indoor use, focusing on baseboards, under furniture, pet sleeping areas, and cracks where larvae develop. Follow safety instructions, ventilate the area, and keep pets and people away for the recommended period.
Fourth, consider non‑chemical options. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) on carpets and pet areas; leave it for 24 hours before vacuuming. Use flea‑combing on pets daily to remove adult insects and eggs, disposing of combed material in soapy water.
Fifth, implement preventive measures. Maintain regular grooming and flea‑preventive medication throughout the year. Keep lawns trimmed, remove debris, and limit wildlife access to the yard to reduce external sources of infestation.
By executing these steps in sequence and maintaining vigilance, the flea population can be eradicated and future outbreaks prevented.