How to Flea Bomb Your House If You Have a Fish Tank

At some point in time, many animal lovers and pet owners may have to get rid of fleas in their home with a flea bomb, or fumigation. However, these harmful gasses can be toxic to not only insects, but also any pet fish living in an aquarium in the area. Before releasing the flea bomb, you'll need to take a few steps to protect your fish and ensure they are not harmed by the fumigation.

Things You'll Need

  • Waterproof tarp
  • Towels
  • Siphon
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Instructions

    • 1

      Move the tank out of the area that is being fumigated, if the tank is small enough to be safely relocated. This method will work best for fish bowls and travel tanks that are 10 gallons or less. Do not try to move a traditional aquarium with water or gravel still inside, as this could shatter the tank.

    • 2

      Take as many fish supplies out of the area as possible, if you're not able to remove the entire tank. Move containers, siphons, nets and fish foods away to avoid contaminating them with the flea spray.

    • 3

      Turn off all filters and air pumps of the aquarium. A tank's gas exchange rate is increased with water surface agitation. By turning off the pumps and filters, you will keep surface agitation to a minimum during the fumigation and prevent bringing the harmful outside gasses into the aquarium's waters.

    • 4

      Cover the aquarium with a waterproof tarp. This will shield the equipment, tank and its inhabitants from falling toxic gasses of the flea spray. Ensure the aquarium and stand is draped in the tarp from top to bottom.

    • 5

      Wet bath towels in the sink and wring them out. Place these damp towels over the top of the draped aquarium. Use as many towels as needed to cover the entire surface area of the tank. These towels will help absorb toxic gasses before they can enter the tank, while also adding an additional shield on the aquarium.

    • 6

      Perform a partial water change after the fumigation is complete. Siphon out about 25 percent of the aquarium's water and replace it with clean, de-chlorinated water.