h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I have no cats [I do have dogs tho], but we have recenty been suffering from flea probs! I went to the doctor to have the bites checked coz I had no idea where they were coming from --she said they were probably from cat fleas-- and I recall feeding a stray cat a week ago. And now our entire household have these nasty flea bites! Since I have no cat to treat, are there more specific ways of ridding the house of these pests?

Thanks

Well, if they've infested your house, you probably need to go after your carpets and bedding, plus any upholstered furniture. And it all has to be done pretty much on the same day, otherwise it will only help temporarily. Bedding and the like should be washed in hot water. As far as the carpets and the furniture, flea bombs work, but they do wreak havoc on the breathing quality of the air. If the infestation isn't too bad, vacuuming (with a flea collar in the bag) the carpet and furniture thoroughly might be enough.

Most dogs have cat fleas as opposed to dog fleas anyway. There is only a very slight difference in the variety so cat fleas are just as happy on dogs.

Everything that Mikey said is spot on! However it is worth treating dogs routinely for fleas anyway - just by going for walks they can pick up fleas from the park or even the street - anywhere that other dogs or cats have passed by.

Treat them for tapeworms too as fleas spread them by acting as a host.

Speak to a vet about getting an effective prescription treatment rather than a cheaper over the counter one - as the strength of them may not be enough to clear your pets if they have a heavy infestation. The vet will also advise on a suitable all year protection method too.

Good luck!