What Are Fleas?

Fleas are small, dark brown insects that measure only about one-tenth of an inch in length. They have four legs that they use to jump great distances – up to 200 times their own body length! Fleas are wingless, but their bodies are flattened from top to bottom, which helps them move easily through the fur of animals.

Fleas are parasites that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. They are most commonly found on dogs and cats, but they can also infest other animals, including rodents, rabbits, and even humans. Fleas can live for several months without feeding, which is why they are so difficult to get rid of once they invade your home.

What Do Fleas Do?

Besides being a nuisance, fleas can also pose a serious health risk to both humans and animals. Fleas can transmit diseases and parasites, including the bubonic plague and typhus. They can also cause anemia in young animals or those with weak immune systems. In severe cases, fleas can even cause death.

How Do Fleas Get into Your Home?

Fleas usually enter homes on the backs of animals, but they can also hitch a ride on your clothing or in luggage. Once they’re inside, fleas can quickly multiply and infest both your home and your pets. Female fleas lay up to 50 eggs per day, and these eggs can hatch within just a few days.

How Do You Know if You Have Fleas?

The most common sign of a flea infestation is itching and scratching by your pets. You may also see flea dirt – small, dark specks that look like ground pepper – on your pet’s fur. If you suspect that your home is infested with fleas, look for small, brown insects crawling on your carpets or upholstered furniture. You may also see bites on your skin that look like small, red bumps.

Is Getting Rid of Fleas Hard?

Getting rid of fleas can be a very difficult and time-consuming process, but it’s important to do if you want to protect your family’s health. The first step is to treat all infested animals with a flea shampoo or spot-on treatment recommended by your veterinarian. Then, you need to treat your home for fleas. This usually involves vacuuming all carpets and upholstered furniture, washing all bedding in hot water, and using a flea spray or powder to kill any remaining fleas.

You may need to repeat this process several times before all the fleas are gone.

How Do You Get Rid of Fleas?

The best way to get rid of fleas is to contact a professional pest control company. A trained technician will be able to identify the severity of your infestation and recommend the best course of treatment. This may include using an insecticide or fumigation.

How Can You Prevent Fleas from Infesting Your Home?

The best way to prevent fleas from infesting your home is to regularly treat your pets with a flea preventative. You should also vacuum your floors and upholstered furniture frequently, and wash your pet’s bedding in hot water. If you suspect that your home has been invaded by fleas, contact a professional pest control company immediately. Taking quick action will help to prevent a full-blown infestation.

If you have any questions about fleas or other pests, please contact our office. We would be happy to help you get rid of these unwelcome houseguests! Thank you for reading.