Why do fleas appear in the house only in summer? - briefly
Fleas thrive when warm temperatures and high humidity accelerate their life cycle, allowing eggs to hatch and larvae to develop rapidly inside homes. Summer also coincides with increased outdoor activity of pets and wildlife, which brings adult fleas into the indoor environment where they find suitable hosts.
Why do fleas appear in the house only in summer? - in detail
Fleas thrive when temperature and humidity rise, conditions typical of the warm season. Development from egg to adult accelerates at temperatures above 20 °C, shortening the life cycle to a few weeks. Higher humidity prevents desiccation of eggs and larvae, further enhancing survival rates.
Domestic animals, especially dogs and cats, spend more time outdoors during the hot months, increasing exposure to flea‑infested environments such as grass, leaf litter, and wildlife habitats. After feeding, adult fleas often return to the host and may be carried indoors, where they find suitable microclimates for reproduction.
Indoor environments become favorable when heating is reduced and windows are left open, allowing warm, moist air to enter. Carpets, bedding, and cracks in flooring retain humidity, providing shelter for immature stages. The combination of abundant hosts, optimal climate, and suitable refuges explains the seasonal surge of indoor flea activity.
Preventive actions include:
- Regular grooming and inspection of pets for adult fleas and eggs.
- Application of veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea control products throughout the warm period.
- Frequent vacuuming of floors, upholstery, and pet bedding to remove eggs and larvae.
- Washing bedding and blankets in hot water weekly to eliminate developing stages.
- Sealing cracks and crevices in flooring and walls to reduce hiding places.
These measures address the biological and environmental factors that cause fleas to appear inside homes predominantly during the summer months.