To kill fleas effectively, you need to treat both your pets and your home environment, as fleas live on animals and in their surroundings.
How to Kill Fleas on Pets
- Bathe your pet with mild soap or a medicated flea shampoo; soap kills adult fleas on contact
- Use flea combs to remove fleas, their feces, and dried blood from your pet’s fur
- Apply topical flea treatments like Frontline or Revolution, which kill adult fleas and prevent eggs from hatching. These should be used exactly as directed based on your pet’s type, age, and weight
- Use oral flea medications such as Bravecto or Capstar, which kill fleas after they bite your pet
- Consider pet-safe flea sprays for quick contact killing of fleas on your pet
How to Kill Fleas in Your Home
- Vacuum thoroughly and frequently , focusing on carpets, upholstery, floors, and pet bedding. Empty the vacuum bag or canister immediately after use to prevent fleas from escaping
- Wash all pet bedding and your bedding in hot, soapy water regularly and dry on high heat to kill fleas and eggs
- Use flea sprays or powders that are safe for pets to treat carpets and furniture, following label instructions carefully
- Use natural remedies such as sprinkling baking soda or salt on carpets, scrubbing, and then vacuuming to dehydrate and kill fleas
. Lemon spray made by steeping lemon slices in boiling water and spraying infested areas can also help
- Steam clean carpets and furniture ; the combination of heat and moisture kills fleas at all life stages
How to Kill Fleas in Your Yard
- Mow the lawn regularly and remove debris like dead leaves and twigs where fleas hide
- Spread cedar chips or sulfur powder in shady areas and spots where your pet rests to repel fleas
- Avoid overwatering to reduce humid conditions that fleas thrive in
- Consider using nematodes , tiny worms that eat flea larvae, available at garden centers
- Keep wildlife away as animals like opossums and squirrels can carry fleas
Additional Tips
- Treat all pets in the household simultaneously to prevent re-infestation
- Maintain flea prevention year-round, as fleas can survive indoors even in winter due to heating
- If infestation persists, consult your veterinarian for professional advice and treatment options
By combining pet treatment, thorough cleaning, and yard maintenance, you can effectively kill fleas and prevent their return
