Laura asked 7 years ago
I was wondering whether it is actually possible for fleas to infest your house if a pet has had fleas, but not anymore. As one of your articles explained that larvae need flea dirt to survive, I assume this must be present in order to create pupas.
My dog had some fleas, but by using a pill killing all living fleas within 24 hours on him, and then washing him thoroughly, I removed everything on his coat. The eggs that may be hatching in the environment will need flea dirt to live on. If this is not present (from fleas on the dog), can I assume that all larvae will die?
Adam Retzer Staff answered 7 years ago
Laura,
Yes, the larvae need flea dirt to survive. So, if none fell from your dog, then any hatching larvae would starve. However, if any eggs were laid, then flea dirt was produced as well. This is because fleas must feed for at least 24-36 hours before they can even lay eggs. While feeding they will be defecating.
If you caught the infestation within 24 hours, you should be in the clear. However, often fleas go undetected for a while.
Hope this helps!
Adam
