How to Kill Sand Fleas on a Pet

Sand fleas are found by beaches.

Blood-sucking sand fleas, or Tsunga Penetrans, are also known as chigoe fleas. They are often called no-seeums because they resemble a small biting fly. Sand fleas are most common in coastal areas of southern states and Alaska, although they can be found near creeks, lakes, and beaches. In high-density areas, they often fly in masses and produce a high-pitched whine. Sand flea bites are typically more painful than the usual dog or cat flea bites. Killing the sand fleas on your pet is one step, but you also need to thoroughly treat the indoor and outdoor areas that are accessible to your pet.

Things You'll Need

• Comb (32 teeth/inch)
• Detergent water
• Pet shampoo (flea-killing)
• Flea treatment (topical, powder or collar)

Instructions

1. Comb your pet daily using a comb with 32 teeth per inch to remove adult fleas before they can lay eggs. After removing fleas place them in detergent water to kill them.

2. Shampoo your pet with a flea control shampoo that kills fleas. The scrubbing action will loosen the fleas from your pet's coat so that you may dispose of them. Shampoos may dry the pet's skin so you may have to wait three days before applying the next level of flea control.

3. Apply another method of flea control, such as once-a-month topicals, flea powders, or flea collars. Once a month topicals will kill and also repel fleas and prevent reinfestation by rendering fleas unable to reproduce. If using a flea powder, work the powder into the coat from head to tail, paying special attention to the neck, back, and rump. Flea collars are most effective on short-haired pets.

4. Monitor occurrence of fleas. It is normal for your pet to still have some live fleas after two to three weeks of treatment, since it takes some time for all life stages of the flea to absorb the medication.

5. Continue to treat the pet until all signs of fleas are gone. This may take up to a couple weeks to six months.

Tips & Warnings

• You may need to supplement flea collar use on long-haired pets with other methods, such as frequent shampoos or dips.

• Vacuum or steam-clean the entire indoor area that is accessible to your pet, including under drapes and your pet's sleeping area. Wash your pet's bedding thoroughly.

• Thoroughly treat the outdoor area with a pet-friendly fogger or spray. Pay attention to patios and underneath porches. (See References 4)

• Many people recommend using carbaryl sold under Sevin Dust insecticide to sprinkle on pets to kill sand fleas. Carbaryl is used in the commercial pesticide, lawn, and pet markets. It was widely thought as safe for pet use, but in 2009 the EPA canceled product registrations using carbaryl in pet collars.

• Do not use products for dogs on cats. Products containing permethrins are considered unsafe for use on cats.

References

• Ask the exterminator: Sand Fleas
• Orkin: Are you aware of sand fleas?
• Vlex: Product Cancellation Order: Carbaryl
• Doctors Foster and Smith: Flea Control and Prevention
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Fleas

Resources

• Controlling Fleas on Dogs