Can Pets Stay Home During Tick and Flea Treatment?

Pet owners often ask whether their animals need to leave during home treatment. The answer depends on the products and method.

The short answer

In most cases, pets should be kept out of the home or treated rooms during treatment and until surfaces are dry and the area is ventilated, as the provider advises. Remove food, water bowls, bedding and toys or cover them, and keep fish tanks and birds away or covered. Ask the professional about products suitable around pets and about re-entry time, and treat your pets on a vet's advice at the same time.

Before treatment

1. Tell the professional about all pets, including cats, birds and fish.
2. Remove bowls, bedding and toys.
3. Plan a safe place for pets to stay.

During and after

• Keep pets away until surfaces are dry and rooms are aired.
• Wipe pet areas as advised.
• Return pets only when the provider says it is safe.

Special cases

• Cover or move fish tanks.
• Take birds out of the house.
• Be extra careful with puppies, kittens and sick pets.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

How long to keep them out?

As advised by the provider, often several hours.

Can pets lick treated floors?

Wait until dry and aired.

Should pets be treated too?

Yes, on a vet's advice.

What about caged pets?

Move them to a safe area.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on tick and flea control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full tick and flea control guide for Bangalore.