Fleas

Fleas go through four life stages: egg → larva → pupa → adult. A single female flea can lay up to 25 eggs per day, producing hundreds during her lifetime. These eggs fall off the animal into carpets, bedding and floor areas.

•Eggs hatch within a few days
•Larvae (tiny, worm-like grubs) feed on organic debris and dried blood from adult flea droppings
•After a few weeks, larvae spin a cocoon and become pupae
•Adult fleas develop inside the cocoon and can stay there for many months, waiting for vibrations (movement, footsteps, pets returning) before emerging

This is why flea problems can suddenly appear in homes that have been empty or where pets have recently left. In warm indoor conditions, the full life cycle can take 4–6 weeks, but it can take much longer in cooler environments.

For every flea seen on a pet, there may be dozens or even hundreds developing in carpets and furnishings. This is why treating the animal alone is not enough.

Flea infestations are often noticed when:

•A pet leaves the home or passes away
•People move into a previously occupied property
•Fleas start biting humans in the absence of their usual animal host

Flea bites are commonly found on lower legs and ankles, though children may be bitten more widely because they spend time on the floor. Reactions vary — some people experience itching and swelling, while others show little reaction.

Infestations can be introduced by:

•Your own pets
•Visiting animals
•Wildlife
•Previous occupants’ pets
•Occasionally on clothing or belongings

Even without pets, fleas can survive in carpets and soft furnishings for long periods.

Eliminating fleas is not a quick fix because of their life cycle and the hidden pupal stage.

For effective control:

• Pets must be treated with appropriate flea products supplied by a veterinary professional
• Pet bedding should be washed on a hot cycle
• Carpets and furnishings need professional treatment to target developing stages
We do not treat pets directly — this must be done by the owner following veterinary advice.

Professional treatment of the home is essential to break the breeding cycle and prevent re-infestation.

To make the treatment as effective as possible, please:

• Vacuum edges of skirting boards including any cracks and crevasses, carpets, rugs and soft furnishings thoroughly’
• Empty the vacuum outside into a sealed bag
• Wash pet bedding on a hot wash (60°C if possible)
• Clear items from floor areas, especially along skirting boards
• Ensure pets have been treated with a vet-approved flea product

Important: After treatment, you may continue to see some fleas for a short time. This is normal and happens as newly emerged fleas come into contact with the treatment.

Do not vacuum treated areas for at least 3 weeks after treatment. This is essential because insecticide residues need to remain in place to kill fleas as they emerge from the pupal stage. No insecticide can penetrate the cocoon, so newly hatched fleas must come into contact with treated surfaces to be eliminated.

• Flea activity may be seen after treatment — this is part of the life cycle, not treatment failure. The insecticide has a residual effect, the hatching fleas need to have contact with the residue, that is why you should avoid vacuuming for 3 weeks after treatment.
• Avoid deep cleaning or shampooing carpets for at least 3 weeks
• Continue regular flea treatment for pets as advised by your vet
• Wash pet bedding regularly during this period
• If you vacuum after the 3-week period, dispose of vacuum contents outside immediately

If flea activity continues beyond a few weeks, contact us for further advice. In some cases, a follow-up visit may be required due to heavy infestations or untreated pets. Flea problems are very common — there’s no need to feel embarrassed. We deal with this every week and we’re here to help.