Dr. Richard Hopper, a Mississippi State University Extension Service veterinarian, said fleas do not just live on animals, but they also live in the animal's environment. Keeping all areas of your house and yard clean is important to keep fleas from taking over.
Fleas hide around baseboards, in cracks in floors and in hard to reach areas.
Adult fleas, reddish brown and wingless, need to feed off an animal host, but can live for about two weeks without feeding. Vacuuming and changing bedding frequently helps prevent fleas from remaining in the house and reproducing. When the animal goes back to its normal living area, it will get more fleas. Living areas should be treated at the same time as the animal. Treat furniture, bedding and other household areas with an insecticide suitable for inside use.