Fast & Quick Methods to Get Rid of Fleas

Fleas are parasites that feed on warm-blooded humans and animals. They are attracted to body heat and warm environments, which makes them thrive in the home. There are several different methods you can use to get rid of a flea infestation quickly. If you aren't sure whether any treatment is safe to use with your pet, consult a veterinarian before administering the treatment.

  1. "Spot-On" Treatments

    • There are several pesticide treatments on the market for fleas. "Spot-on" medicines such as Frontline work the fastest because you apply them directly to your pet's body. Follow the medicine's specific instructions when applying it to your pet, and don't use any type of pet medicine on a puppy or kitten unless its instructions say that it can be used with them. Strong pesticides that kill fleas may also have an affect on your pet, so watch for adverse health reactions once you have administered treatment, and call a veterinarian immediately if a severe problem does occur.

    Flea Brushes or Combs

    • Flea brushes or combs are fine enough to catch fleas, while allowing your pet's fur to pass through. This method requires more work on your part, because you will need to brush your pet's hair thoroughly, and drop fleas in soapy water to kill them, but it doesn't apply any chemicals directly to your pet.

    Sprays

    • Sprays work similarly to spot-on treatments, but instead of applying it to a single spot on your pet, you spray the treatment all over your pet's body. They work faster than spot-on treatments, but may not be cost effective for larger animals. Sprays carry many of the same disadvantages of spot-on treatments, since pesticide must be applied directly to the animal. Call a veterinarian immediately if your pet has a severe reaction to treatment.

    Other Considerations

    • Fleas will lay eggs in places other than hair and fur. Vacuum your carpet daily when there is a flea infestation to prevent further problems. Steam cleaning your floors also kills fleas and flea eggs. Washing or vacuuming blankets, pillows, cushions, and furniture helps eliminate fleas from other common areas where they live. If you use a pesticide, keep the packaging so that you can call a veterinarian and explain exactly what product you used if your pet experiences a serious health issue.