Best Way to Get Rid of Fleas

Fleas can carry diseases and parasites, not to mention that they can be highly uncomfortable for your four-legged friend. Imagine having tiny mosquito bites all over your body---all the time. That is what having fleas is like for a dog or cat. Luckily, fleas are something that can be taken care of. There are several ways to get rid of fleas; the trick is finding the best way for you and your pet.

  1. Flea Prevention

    • The first step in getting rid of fleas is making sure that you never have to. Talk to your veterinarian about flea medication to prevent fleas on your pet. They can be administered once every 30 days, and kill and prevent fleas, flea eggs, lice and even mosquito bites. Keep your dog away from other dogs who may have fleas. Dog parks can be a lot of fun but are a breeding ground for fleas.

    Getting Rid of Fleas

    • Fleas can take over your home---and fast. Get a flea bomb, some spray for your couches and upholstery, and vacuum well. If you do use a flea bomb, remove your pet and any people from the home before using it. With all flea products, read and follow the instructions on the packaging.
      Steam cleaning carpets and upholstery are also great ways of ridding the home of fleas. There are also powders you can sprinkle into the carpet to kill fleas. You can buy the powder from pet stores and supermarkets. Just sprinkle, wait and vacuum.

    Keep Their Area Clean

    • If your pet has a special pillow or bed, wash it often and keep it flea-free. This is where fleas tend to congregate. Many pet owners neglect this area when de-fleaing their home. Regular vacuuming with a flea powder is also a good idea.

    Flea Eggs

    • Fleas can reproduce rapidly. When purchasing flea products, be sure that they kill eggs and larvae as well. It does no good to kill live fleas if their eggs will eventually hatch.

    Keep it Up

    • Fleas will get out of control if you let them. Flea control and prevention is an ongoing battle. Always use the flea medication given by your veterinarian on a regular basis to prevent new fleas from arriving, and make sure your pet's area is clean and flea-free at all times. Inspect your pets on a regular basis for fleas. Also, de-flea the home on a regular basis---even if you don't see any signs of them. This can prevent them from becoming an issue in the future.