Why Are There Fleas in My House?

Fleas commonly enter Georgia homes on dogs and cats. Once an adult flea finds an animal host, it feeds and lays eggs that can fall into carpeting, pet bedding, upholstered furniture, and other areas where the animal spends time.

But what if you don't have pets?

Rodents, stray cats, and other animals can introduce fleas around a property. Fleas left behind by animals that previously occupied a home can also become a problem for new occupants.

Not sure what you're dealing with? Our flea identification guide can help you recognize fleas and understand where to look for activity.

What to Do When Fleas Are Biting You

When fleas start biting people inside the house, it's understandable to wonder whether they're actually living on you.

Can Fleas Live on Humans?

Not typically. Fleas can bite people, but common household fleas prefer animal hosts, particularly cats and dogs. Unlike head lice, they don't usually live or reproduce on humans.

Does Showering Get Rid of Fleas?

Only from your skin. Showering can wash away fleas on your body, but it won't eliminate an infestation in your home. Washing affected clothing can help remove fleas from fabric, too.

How to Get Rid of Fleas in the House

If you've discovered fleas indoors, there are several important steps you can take.

Make Sure Your Pets Receive Appropriate Flea Treatment

Talk with your veterinarian about effective flea treatment or prevention for your dogs and cats.

Even indoor pets can encounter fleas. All dogs and cats in the household should receive appropriate protection as directed by your veterinarian.

Never use flea products intended for dogs on cats, or assume a treatment safe for one animal is safe for another.

Vacuum Carpets, Rugs, and Furniture

Vacuuming helps remove adult fleas, eggs, and some developing stages from indoor surfaces.

Concentrate on:

• Carpets and area rugs, especially where pets rest
• Upholstered furniture and cushions
• Along baseboards and carpet edges
• Cracks and crevices in flooring
• Pet sleeping and resting areas

Vacuum regularly during an infestation, and dispose of the contents promptly in a sealed bag outside the home.

Wash Pet Bedding and Other Affected Fabrics

Wash pet bedding, blankets, and washable fabrics where pets spend time. Use hot, soapy water when the material allows it.

Regular cleaning helps reduce flea populations and supports effective treatment.

Check for Fleas in the Yard

Fleas aren't limited to indoor spaces. Dogs and cats can pick them up outside and bring them into the house.

In Georgia yards, fleas are more likely to develop in shaded, humid areas where pets or other animals spend time. According to the University of Georgia Extension, areas beneath decks and porches are common outdoor flea habitats, while open, sunny sections of the lawn are generally less favorable.

If fleas are active outdoors, professional yard treatments can help reduce their populations and limit your pets' exposure.

Why Fleas Are Difficult to Eliminate on Your Own

Fleas develop through four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. While cleaning can remove many fleas and their developing stages, some remain hidden in protected areas.

The pupal stage is particularly challenging. Flea pupae develop inside protective cocoons that are resistant to many insecticides. Even after development is complete, adult fleas can remain inside their cocoons until warmth, movement, or other signs of a nearby host trigger their emergence.

That's why fleas may continue appearing despite repeated cleaning or pet treatments. An established infestation often requires professional attention to the areas where fleas are developing.

Can Fleas Survive Inside Georgia Homes During Winter?

Yes. Although fleas thrive in warm, humid conditions, they don't necessarily disappear when outdoor temperatures drop.

Heated homes and animal hosts can support flea activity throughout fall and winter in North Metro Atlanta.

If you're finding fleas in October, November, or December, don't count on colder weather to solve the problem.

Get Professional Flea Control for Your North Metro Atlanta Home

If fleas are a problem in your home or yard, got bugs? Termite & Pest Solutions can help.

Locally owned and family-operated since 2006, got bugs? Termite & Pest Solutions provides specialized flea & tick control service for North Metro Atlanta homes and yards.

For indoor infestations, we treat affected areas of the home and return for a scheduled follow-up. Our interior flea service also includes a warranty with additional re-treatments until the infestation is resolved.

Outside, we treat the yard, focusing on common flea and tick hotspots, and return 30 days later for a second treatment.

We'll explain how to prepare your home before service, so our team can provide effective treatment.

Still dealing with fleas? Contact got bugs? today to request a free quote for professional flea control in Alpharetta, Cumming, Johns Creek, Roswell, and surrounding North Metro Atlanta communities.

^{This blog was originally published on February 17, 2022, and updated on October 26, 2026, to reflect current information.}