To control fleas it is necessary to understand the life cycle of the flea. Approximately 85% of any flea population is in the egg and larval stages of development. An additional 10% are pupae and the remaining 5% adults. Due to their cocoons, pupal fleas are difficult to kill. The immatures, i.e. eggs and larvae, however, are vulnerable to flea control products containing insect growth regulators (IGRs).

For a successful flea control program, then, it is necessary to attack the most vulnerable phase in the life cycle: the immatures.

Steps for success:

1. Be prepared to treat the house, pet and yard/sleeping quarters.
2. Do not rely on a broad-spectrum insecticide alone.
3. Try to treat by breaking the insect's life cycle versus treating only adults.
4. Utilize environmentally friendly treatment options:
   • Flea Pill and other internal insect growth regulators work inside your pet to break the flea's life cycle. They can only be obtained through your local veterinarian and are among the most effective control measures.
   • Use an insecticide to kill adults quickly then decompose. Follow this by an insect growth regulator which can be sprayed on pet, yard, house and bedding to prevent newly hatch fleas from becoming mating adults. These work for up to 120 days to break flea life cycle.
   • Avoid allowing pets to spend time in wet, shady areas where fleas breed most readily. Keep tall grass mowed and consider trimming shrubs and trees to allow sunlight penetration to soil.
   • Consult your veterinarian for the best options for your pet. Make sure that products used on your pet are labelled as such. Others might be harmful.
   • Be sure to read and follow all insecticide label directions. Some insecticides may stain carpets so check the label carefully. See CAUTION below. Do not dispose of insecticides in storm sewers or down kitchen sinks, toilets, etc. buy a small quantity and use it up on the site intended so that it can break down in the environment.
5. Note the flea population. The adults you see are only the tip of the iceberg. Treating only these adults is not effective.

CAUTION: When using an insecticide within the house, you should always consider the possibility of damage to woodwork, tile, carpet or fabric. If in doubt about the possible damaging effects of a chemical on household items, spray a small area or portion of a fabric and observe for damage. Also, be sure to consider the safety of children and pets (dogs, birds, fish, etc.) before using an insecticide inside the home.

See also OCES publications L-258 Oklahoma Clean!: Flea Control in the Home;
   L-259 Oklahoma Clean! Controlling Fleas & Ticks in the Yard.

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