Pet owners are being warned to check their homes for fleas as the heatwave and predicted downpours create a ‘perfect storm’ for infestations.

Warmer weather means that owners may already be checking their animals and making sure they are up to date with preventative treatment.

But veterinary product specialist Dechra is warning homeowners to check their home too if they want to eliminate the pests completely.

Carol Morgan, Brand Manager at Dechra, says all too often pet owners treat their animals but forget that fleas can still live in carpets, crevices in hard floors and furnishings in the home.

“This hot weather combined with the humidity we’ve seen in recent days, is exactly the type of weather which will see the flea population increase.

“The issue is that our homes are also hot and humid and just because owners have treated their pet, doesn’t mean that there aren’t fleas in the carpets and hiding under the sofas of their homes.

“Only around 5% medical imaging of a flea infestation is made up of adult fleas on your pet, whereas 95% is in your home as eggs, larvae and pupae. This means that to prevent and control flea infestations, both ‘on animal’ and environmental protection must be used.”

The warning came as some environmental flea sprays are being removed from the market following new EU regulations on active substances they contain.

Carol added: “Our advice would always be to speak to your veterinary practice about both the solution for your pet and for your home. There are some products, such as the R.I.P Fleas Extra spray, which are fully compliant with EU regulations and these are available from veterinary practices across the country.

R.I.P. Fleas Extra, which is sold through veterinary practices, includes Tetramethrin, Permethrin and S-methoprene to actively treat flea infestations and dust mites in domestic settings.