How to safely get rid of fleas?

Fleas are one of the most common household pests, causing discomfort for both humans and pets. Known for their ability to multiply quickly and cause itchy bites, fleas can be a persistent problem. The good news is, with the right knowledge and techniques, you can effectively and safely get rid of fleas in your home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to eliminate fleas, prevent future infestations, and protect your family and pets.

What are fleas?

Fleas are small, parasitic insects that live by feeding on the blood of warm-blooded animals. The most common species in New Zealand is the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), which also infests dogs, cats, and other animals. These pests are known for their excellent jumping ability and can easily transfer from one host to another. Fleas are typically dark brown or reddish in colour, with flat bodies and long, powerful hind legs that allow them to leap several times their body length.

The flea lifecycle consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Adult fleas can live for several weeks, while their larvae can survive for months, waiting for the right conditions to develop into fully grown fleas. The problem with fleas is that they reproduce rapidly, so even a small infestation can become overwhelming in a short amount of time.

Why are fleas a problem?

Fleas are more than just a nuisance. They can pose health risks to both pets and humans, causing discomfort and even transmitting diseases. Some of the issues associated with fleas include:

• Itchy Bites: Flea bites can cause intense itching and discomfort. While most people are allergic to flea saliva, it’s not just pets that suffer from bites. Humans can also be bitten, especially when fleas are present in the home.
   
• Flea-Borne Diseases: Fleas can carry diseases such as the plague and typhus. Although these are rare today, fleas are still a vector for diseases and parasites, including tapeworms, which can infect pets that ingest fleas during grooming.
   
• Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD): This is a common allergic reaction to flea bites in pets. FAD causes severe itching, hair loss, and skin infections. It is particularly distressing for pets, leading to intense discomfort.

Because of these potential health concerns, it’s crucial to act swiftly to eliminate fleas and prevent future infestations.

How fleas spread: common causes and risk factors

Fleas can easily spread in your home due to several factors:

• Pets: Pets, especially cats and dogs, are the primary source of fleas in most households. They can carry fleas into the home, which then spread throughout the house.
   
• Outdoor Environment: Fleas thrive in outdoor environments, especially in shaded, humid areas. If your pets spend time outdoors, they may pick up fleas from the yard, other animals, or wildlife.
   
• Visitors and Wildlife: If you have outdoor pets or frequent visitors, fleas may also be brought into the home unintentionally. Fleas can hitch a ride on humans, animals, or clothing.

How to safely get rid of fleas: step-by-step guide

Getting rid of fleas requires a comprehensive approach that targets both the adult fleas on your pets and the eggs, larvae, and pupae hidden around your home. Here's how to do it safely and effectively:

1. Treat your pets first

The first step in getting rid of fleas is treating your pets. If your pets are carrying fleas, they will continue to spread them throughout your home.

• Vet-Approved Flea Treatments: The best way to treat fleas on your pets is by using vet-approved flea treatments. These include topical treatments (applied to the skin) and oral medications (taken by mouth). Some popular options include:
   
  • Topical flea treatments: Applied directly to the skin, usually at the back of your pet’s neck. They kill fleas and prevent reinfestation for up to a month.
     
  • Oral flea medications: Flea tablets that pets swallow, which work by killing fleas once they bite your pet.
     
  • Flea collars: These collars release chemicals that repel and kill fleas, offering long-term protection.
     
• Flea shampoos and combing: Bathing your pet with flea shampoo is an effective way to kill adult fleas. Follow this with a flea comb to remove any remaining fleas and eggs. Flea combs have fine teeth designed to trap fleas, dirt, and eggs.
   
• Flea sprays: If your pet has a heavy flea infestation, flea sprays specifically designed for pets can help eliminate fleas. These sprays can kill fleas on contact, providing immediate relief.

2. Treat your home

Once your pets are treated, it’s time to focus on eliminating fleas from your home. Fleas can live in carpets, furniture, bedding, and even on your floors, so it's crucial to clean thoroughly.

• Vacuuming: Vacuuming is one of the most effective ways to remove fleas from your home. Be sure to vacuum all carpets, rugs, and soft furnishings where fleas might be hiding. Don’t forget to vacuum along baseboards, behind furniture, and in cracks and crevices. After vacuuming, immediately empty the vacuum bag into a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it outside.
   
• Washing fabrics: Wash your pet’s bedding, your bedding, and any fabric your pet has come into contact with. Use hot water and dry on the highest heat setting to kill fleas, eggs, and larvae.
   
• Flea sprays and powders: Use flea sprays designed for indoor use to treat your home. These products are formulated to kill fleas in all stages of life, from eggs to adults. Some sprays contain insect growth regulators (IGRs), which disrupt the flea life cycle and prevent new fleas from developing.
   
• Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a non-toxic, natural powder that can be sprinkled in areas infested with fleas. It works by dehydrating the fleas and killing them. Sprinkle DE in your carpets, floors, and any other places where fleas are likely to hide. Leave it for a few hours, then vacuum it up.

3. Treat your yard

If your pets spend time outdoors, fleas may be living in your yard, too. Fleas are more likely to be found in shaded, moist areas, so it’s essential to treat these areas.

• Mow the lawn: Fleas thrive in tall grass, so keeping your lawn mowed regularly will reduce flea habitats.
   
• Clear debris: Fleas often hide in piles of leaves, branches, or other yard debris. Remove this debris to reduce flea habitats.
   
• Outdoor flea treatments: Use flea sprays or granules that are specifically designed for outdoor use. These products will help kill fleas in your yard and prevent them from reinfesting your home.

4. Prevent reinfestation

Once you’ve successfully dealt with a flea infestation, it’s essential to take preventive measures to avoid future issues.

• Regular flea treatments: Keep your pets on a regular flea treatment regimen. Monthly flea preventatives, combined with routine flea combing, can help prevent future infestations.
   
• Continued cleaning: Continue to vacuum regularly, wash your pet’s bedding, and inspect your home for any signs of fleas. Regular cleaning is essential to keeping your home flea-free.

Inspect Your Pets: Routinely check your pets for fleas, especially during the warmer months when flea activity peaks.

When to call a professional flea control service

If your flea infestation persists despite your best efforts, or if you’re dealing with a heavy infestation, it may be time to call in a professional pest control service. Rentokil NZ offers expert flea control services to eliminate fleas from your home safely. Our pest control professionals are trained to treat flea infestations effectively, using safe, pet-friendly products that will keep your home flea-free.

Conclusion

Fleas are persistent pests, but with the right approach, you can effectively get rid of them and protect your home from reinfestation. Start by treating your pets, then thoroughly clean your home and yard. Regular maintenance and prevention are key to keeping fleas at bay. If you need help, don’t hesitate to contact Rentokil NZ for professional flea control services.