Flea life cycle: simple guide for Australian homes
Introduction
Fleas don’t just live on your pet. Most of the problem hides in carpets, bedding, and cracks in floors. Understanding the life cycle explains why treating once isn’t enough and why cleaning the home matters. If you’d like advice tailored to your pet and home, contact us.
The four stages explained
Eggs. Adult fleas lay eggs on your pet. These eggs fall off into your home within hours.
Larvae. Tiny larvae hatch and crawl deep into fabric and floor gaps, feeding on organic debris.
Pupae. Larvae spin cocoons and wait. This is the stubborn stage. Pupae can sit tight for weeks.
Adults. Heat, vibration, and carbon dioxide trigger adults to emerge and jump onto your pet.
Where fleas live in Aussie homes
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Pet bedding and favourite sleeping spots
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Carpets, rugs, and soft furnishings
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Under furniture and along skirting boards
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Car seats and boot liners after trips to parks or the beach
How long does it all take?
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Eggs: a few days to hatch in warm conditions
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Larvae: around 1–2 weeks
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Pupae: variable, often weeks until the right trigger arrives
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Adults on pets: can live for weeks if untreated
Why you still see fleas after you treat
Even when a good product kills adult fleas fast, new adults can emerge from cocoons in the home for a short time. This doesn’t mean the product failed. It means the life cycle is catching up. Stay on schedule and keep cleaning to starve the environment of eggs.
How to break the cycle
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Treat every pet with a species-appropriate product, matched to weight and age.
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Dose on time — monthly or long-acting as per the label.
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Vacuum carpets, rugs, sofas, and car seats. Empty the vacuum outside.
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Hot wash bedding and blankets, then dry thoroughly.
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Keep going for at least three months to clear hidden stages.
Products we trust
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Dogs: NexGard Chewables for Dogs — monthly chew for fleas and ticks. Match the weight band and follow the label.
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Cats: Revolution Plus Spot-On for Cats — monthly spot-on with broad cover when used as directed.
FAQ
Do I need to treat in winter?
Yes. Indoor environments in many Australian homes keep fleas active year-round.
How long until I stop seeing fleas?
Most homes improve within a few weeks, but allow three months of on-time dosing and cleaning to clear stubborn stages.
Is vacuuming really that important?
Yes. Vacuuming removes eggs, larvae, and debris they feed on, and helps trigger pupae to emerge so they can be controlled.
Can baths replace flea products?
No. Bathing helps skin comfort but doesn’t prevent re-infestation. Use a registered product and follow the schedule.
When should I switch products?
Switch for convenience or broader cover. Start the new product when the old one is due — that avoids double dosing and gaps.
Shop trusted flea, tick and worm protection for dogs and cats. Our vet-led team can help you choose a product and set up a simple plan for your home.
