Heathermarie asked 7 years ago
So, I’ve been attempting to eradicate my flea problem by washing, vacuuming, and spraying several times, as well as treating my dog with Frontline Plus and flea baths. I finally gave up and called an exterminator. I vacuumed immediately before the exterminator came. Six hours after the exterminator left, I vacuumed again and put out a flea trap. So, within an hour the flea trap had about ten new guests. Later, I was taking a shower and noticed a couple of fleas hopping around on the bathroom rug. *Sigh* My question is, is that normal to see adult fleas in that timeframe after treatment. The exterminator said I may see some fleas in 9-14 days, but made it sound like I wouldn’t be seeing them so soon after treatment. Should I be considered that the adulticide didn’t work or is it normal to be seeing adults? Thanks so much for your reply and your very informative website.
Adam Retzer Staff answered 7 years ago
Heathermarie,
It’s somewhat normal to see adult fleas after the exterminator treatments, though 6 hours is pretty soon.
Adulticides aren’t all that effective for treating the environment, which is why using an insect growth regulator (IGR) is recommended. But most treatments include both types of insecticides.
Adult fleas only make up 1-5% of the total infestation. Once they emerge, they find a host right away, and then stay on the animal. The adults vulnerable to environmental adulticides will be those that have emerged from their cocoons and are seeking a host. This won’t be many.
Immature stages (eggs, larvae, and cocooned stages) develop deep within carpeting, and many are protected from the insecticide treatments. It’s possible that cocooned adults avoided the sprays, and then emerged after the treatments. The residual effect of adulticides isn’t very long-lasting compared to IGRs. Still, 6 hours is a bit soon.
Ensure that the exterminator used a product with an IGR, either pyriproxyfen (Nylar) or methoprene (Precor). That environmental treatment, along with monthly Frontline Plus treatments and regular vacuuming should bring your flea problem under control. It may take up to 8 weeks and sometimes longer.
I hope this helps and that your problem is resolved soon.
Adam
Shoot! Concerned, not considered.
Hi Heathermarie, Any update on your progress? Are you noticing a decrease in flea sightings and has the Frontline Plus been working well for you?