Megan Shiflett asked 5 years ago
Between late April and mid June we had a momma cat and her litter of kittens in our house. We quickly developed a horrible flea infestation. We instantly moved all the animals permentantly outside and treated them for fleas. However we have fought a long battle since with flea removal in the house. We just bombed July 9th and used several cans of mycodex to treat the house. I have vacuumed everyday since then and we are still seeing the occasional flea on us and still catching one to two a night in our flea trap. How long before we reach flea control? How long should I continue to vacuum everyday? Only the bedrooms are carpeted, the rest of the house is hardwood and linoleum but I have been vacuuming them too. Please help we are seriously at a loss here.
Adam Retzer Staff answered 5 years ago
Megan,
What you are experiencing is normal. 95-99% on the flea population is eggs, larvae, and pupae hidden in the environment. The larvae seek darkness when they hatch, resulting in them living in protected micro-habitats where sprays and vacuums can’t reach. Patience is required while the immature stages become adults and then die.
Eggs become adults in 17-26 days. However, cocooned adults can enter a quiescent (sleep-like) state for up to 5 months. In most cases, infestations completely end in around 8 weeks. However, sometimes a few fleas are seen longer than this (the last quiescent adults emerging). Vacuuming helps force the cocooned adults emerge earlier, as heat and pressure indicate a host.
With the pets removed and the home sprayed, the current generation living in the home should be the last. New generations won’t survive.
Most of the fleas are probably living in the carpets. However, fleas can also develop in cracks, crevices, and corners of hard floors. Essentially anywhere debris collects. Vacuuming these areas with nozzle attachment is useful. And, of course, treating any rugs.
Warm regards,
Adam
