Tips for Flea-Proofing Your Home and Pets this Summer

As the weather warms up, it's not just the sun and the fresh air that starts to thrive, so do fleas. These annoying pests can make pets uncomfortable and quickly spread throughout the home. Fleas are more active in the warmer months, and without proper prevention, they can cause serious problems for pets. Understanding their lifecycle and preferred conditions is crucial for effective prevention and control during this time. In this post, we’ve covered some key tips for flea-proofing a home and pets this summer and how the team at Sash & Pepps are here to help.

Regularly Bathe and Groom Pets

One of the ideal ways to prevent fleas is to keep pets clean and well-groomed. Regular baths help remove any fleas or flea eggs that may be on their fur. Use a pet-safe flea shampoo that targets fleas without irritating a pet's skin. Alongside baths, regular grooming is essential. Brushing their coat helps to remove fleas, flea dirt, and eggs. It’s also a great way to spot any signs of flea infestations early. If you find fleas, act quickly to prevent them from spreading further.

Use Flea Treatments Regularly

Flea treatments are an effective way to prevent and treat fleas. Many options are available, from topical treatments and oral medications to flea collars. A vet can recommend the best course of treatment based on their age, health, and lifestyle. If they’ve had fleas in the past, it’s important to stay consistent with flea treatments throughout the warmer months. Even if your pet doesn’t show signs of fleas, ongoing prevention is key.

Wash their Bedding and Toys

Fleas love to hide in soft, warm places, such as pet’s bedding and toys are prime locations for fleas to breed. Wash their bedding regularly, ideally once a week during flea season. Use hot water and a pet-safe detergent to kill fleas, eggs, and larvae that may be lingering. If your pet has plush toys, don’t forget to wash them too. Regular cleaning will help reduce the risk of fleas getting comfortable in bedding and toys.

Hoover Regularly

Fleas don’t just live on pets, they can also be found in carpets, rugs, and upholstery. To ensure your home is flea-free, regularly hoover floors, furniture, and any areas pets like to rest. Fleas lay eggs, which can fall off and hatch later, leading to an infestation. Hoovering regularly will help remove any flea eggs, larvae, and adult fleas hiding in your home. After hoovering, empty the bag or bin outside to prevent fleas from escaping back into your home.

Treat Your Home with Flea Control Products

Various flea sprays and powders designed for indoor use can help kill fleas and prevent future infestations. When applying these products, follow the instructions carefully, as some may not be suitable for use around pets or children. Flea bombs, or foggers, can also be an effective way to treat your home if you’ve already experienced an infestation. However, it’s important to clear your home of pets and people before using these products, as they can be quite potent.

Keep Your Garden Tidy

Fleas don’t just live indoors, they can also be found in your garden. Tall grass, overgrown bushes, and debris can create an ideal environment for fleas to thrive. Keeping your garden tidy by regularly mowing the lawn and trimming shrubs will help reduce the risk of fleas entering your home. If your pets spend time in the garden, ensure they are treated with flea protection, and avoid letting them roam in overgrown areas.

What to Do If Your Pet Gets Fleas

Despite your best efforts, there’s always a chance a pet may pick up fleas. If that happens, don’t panic. There are effective treatments available to help get rid of fleas quickly. Start by giving them a bath with flea shampoo and use a flea comb to remove visible fleas from their fur. Use a topical flea treatment or oral medication recommended by a vet. Treat your pet and your home to fully eliminate them. If the infestation is particularly severe, or if your pet is experiencing skin irritation or discomfort, it's a good idea to contact a vet for professional advice and treatment.

Flea-Proof Your Home Today

Flea-proofing a home and pets this summer doesn’t have to be difficult. By staying proactive with regular grooming, using flea treatments, keeping your home clean, and protecting your garden, can prevent fleas from becoming a problem. If your pet does get fleas, there are plenty of effective treatments to help eliminate them quickly. 

If you’re unsure about the best flea prevention methods for your pet, always consult with a vet or speak to the team at Sash & Pepps for expert advice. Our local store in Wigan offers a range of flea prevention and treatment products, from shampoos and collars to sprays and powders. Contact us today or visit us in-store for more information, and together we can keep your pets flea-free this summer.