For many pet owners, the risk of fleas is a worry and the idea of a flea infestation in the home is a nightmare.
Infestations can take weeks or months to control, and when fleas infiltrate the home, they seek out warmth by burying into bedding and carpets.
Steps can be taken to prevent a flea infestation in the home, protecting your pet and family from the nasty side-effects that come with the parasites.
Vet, Hannah Newbury is currently working on The Big Flea Project – a campaign being carried out amongst veterinary practices across the country to understand more about fleas.
Here, she reveals the five things you should do to prevent a flea infestation in the home.
Get busy with the vacuum
Vacuum carpets, furnishings, cracks in the floorboards and upholstered furniture. This will not only help to reduce the adult flea infestation, but also help to reduce their eggs and larvae.
Be careful emptying the vacuum
Empty your vacuum cleaner away from the house because the fleas will still be alive, and you don’t want them coming back into the home.
Ensure all your pets are up-to-date with their flea treatments
It’s important all your pets have year-round protection from fleas. It’s no use just treating one pet and leaving the others. Your vet can advise which products work best but at least 12 weeks of continuous treated is needed to break the flea life cycle effectively.
Groom your pets
Groom your pets regularly with a flea comb to ensure you’re keeping an eye out for any signs of fleas.
Wash your pets bedding
Fleas can survive without a host for many months, burying into the bedding and carpets of your home, so it’s important to wash all bedding and furnishings that your pet uses on a regular basis.
According to Hannah, if you suspect that your pet has fleas and could bring them into the home, the best thing to do is seek help from your local vet.
At least 12 weeks continuous treatment is required to break the flea life cycle, helping to rid the pet of fleas and ensure your home and family are parasite-free.
To find out more, visit www.bigfleaproject.co.uk.
