What to do with domestic fleas? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑prescribed oral or topical flea treatment to all pets, then use an insect‑growth‑regulator spray or fogger to eliminate the remaining insects in the home. Vacuum thoroughly and wash bedding on high heat to remove eggs and larvae.
What to do with domestic fleas? - in detail
Fleas in a home require a coordinated approach that targets the insects, the environment, and any animals that may be hosting them.
First, confirm the presence of fleas by inspecting bedding, carpets, and pet fur for small, dark insects or tiny black specks (flea dirt). Use a fine-toothed comb on pets and a flashlight on flooring to locate adults.
Second, eliminate the insects from the living space.
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable upholstery in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; empty the canister or bag into a sealed bag and discard it outside the home.
- Apply a residual spray or fogger labeled for indoor flea control, following label directions for concentration, ventilation, and dwell time.
Third, treat the animals that serve as hosts.
- Administer a veterinarian‑approved adulticide (topical, oral, or collar) to each pet.
- Repeat the treatment according to the product’s re‑application schedule, typically every 30 days, to break the flea life cycle.
Fourth, address the immature stages that develop in the environment.
- Sprinkle a larvicide (e.g., an insect growth regulator) on carpets, cracks, and pet resting areas; leave it in place for the recommended period before vacuuming.
- Maintain low indoor humidity (≤ 50 %) and keep temperatures below 85 °F, conditions that reduce egg hatching and larval survival.
Fifth, implement preventive measures to avoid reinfestation.
- Schedule regular grooming and flea checks for pets.
- Keep floors clean; mop hard surfaces weekly and vacuum high‑traffic carpet areas at least twice a week.
- Use a monthly preventive product on pets year‑round, especially in regions with warm climates.
By executing these steps systematically, the flea population can be eradicated and the risk of future outbreaks minimized.