Tell the pest controller about every animal in the property before a method is chosen, including fish, birds, reptiles, invertebrates and visiting pets. Give species, enclosure or resting location and any veterinary treatment already used. Ask for written instructions that name which animals, food, bowls, bedding or tanks must move or be protected.
Build an animal map
List where each animal sleeps, feeds and spends time. A cat that uses one sofa, a rabbit housed in an outside run and a covered aquarium create different planning questions. Mention free-roaming animals and whether an enclosure can be moved without compromising welfare.
Keep veterinary products and premises products separate. BPCA warns that products suitable for one animal species may be harmful to another and says animal flea treatments should be recommended by a vet. Never apply a household insecticide to fur, skin, bedding or an enclosure unless its authorised label expressly permits that use.
Ask what the method changes
Request the product or method, treated surfaces, exclusion, ventilation and re-entry directions. For an aquarium, ask whether filtration, aeration or covering is affected; do not improvise. For birds or reptiles, explain heat and ventilation needs before agreeing to move an enclosure.
Ask who confirms that the room can be used again and what should remain uncleaned. “Pet friendly” is not a preparation plan. The written answer should identify the animal and method.
Coordinate home and veterinary action
If fleas are suspected, the vet assesses the animal while the pest professional assesses the property. Share dates without mixing instructions. For rodents or another pest, tell the controller about pet food, litter, runs and access doors because these affect inspection and secure placement.
Call 0203 393 2338, or read the family and pet considerations page.
Frequently asked questions
Must every pet leave the property?
That depends on the method, animal and room. Follow the written job-specific instruction.
Is covering a fish tank enough?
Do not assume so. Describe the tank and filtration and ask for explicit directions before treatment.
Can the pest technician recommend flea medicine?
Veterinary products and animal health belong with a vet; the technician plans the premises work.
Sources and further reading
External references may contain pest or skin photographs.
