Fleas in Cats and Dogs
Fleas are tough little pests that can live on your pets, in your home, and even outside. Treating your cat or dog is only half the battle — you have to treat the whole environment to stop the flea life cycle.
Step 1: Treat All Pets
- Every pet in the home must be treated — even indoor-only animals.
- Use a vet-approved product every month (like Revolution, NexGard, Bravecto, or Credelio, depending on species).
- Never use dog flea products on cats — it can be toxic.
- Continue treatment year-round to prevent new infestations.
Step 2: Clean the Environment
Flea eggs and larvae live in carpets, rugs, bedding, and furniture — not just on your pet.
For the next 3–4 weeks:
- Vacuum daily — especially carpets, rugs, and furniture.
- Empty the vacuum outside after each use.
- Wash all pet bedding, blankets, and your own bedding weekly in hot water and dry on high heat.
- Mop hard floors weekly with hot, soapy water.
- If there’s a heavy infestation, consider using a household flea spray or have a professional pest control treatment done.
Step 3: Know the Life Cycle
- Only 5% of fleas are adults — the rest are eggs, larvae, and pupae hiding in your home.
- It can take up to 3 months to completely eliminate fleas.
- Seeing a few fleas after starting treatment doesn’t mean it’s not working — they’re just hatching from existing eggs. Stay consistent!
Step 4: Keep It Going
- Continue monthly prevention even after fleas are gone.
- Treat outdoor areas where your pets spend time (patios, decks, shady spots).
- Recheck your pets regularly for scratching or flea dirt.
Quick Reminders
- Never use OTC grocery store flea products — many are ineffective or unsafe.
- Don’t skip doses — fleas come back fast.
- Keep up prevention through the winter; indoor heating keeps fleas active.
Call to Action
Stop fleas before they take over your home! Schedule a check-up with Advanced Pet Care Clinic today to discuss safe, effective flea prevention and treatment for all your pets.