Fleas

Protect Your Home and Family from Fleas

Fleas are a common pest problem in homes especially when cats or dogs are present. Not only are they a concern for pets but they are also bite humans. Fleas are usually found in the homes with pets but they can also be a problem for new homeowners that move into previously infested homes and apartments. Pest control is important not only because of the discomfort bites cause to pets and people but also because fleas are carriers of the tapeworm parasite.

Understanding Fleas

Fleas are small - 1/32” to 1/16” long - reddish brown insects that spend most of their adult lives clinging to and feeding on the body of their chosen host. Adults are wingless and have flattened bodies that allow them to move freely between the hairs of dogs and cats. Fleas are also extraordinary jumpers and can jump hundreds of times higher than their body length. In human terms this means that they can jump about 6 inches. Immature fleas or larvae do not live on a host. Flea larvae live around and feed upon on the organic flecks of skin and other similar materials that collect wherever pets spend time. This includes favorite resting areas and bedding sites. Proper cleaning in these areas can go a long ways towards flea control.

Newly developed adult fleas emerge within a protective cocoon they created when they were larvae. Adults within their cocoons can remain dormant for long periods of time and are stimulated to emerge by the vibration of footsteps. The ability to remain dormant is one reason why fleas seem to suddenly emerge in vacant homes once new owners move in and start walking around. Also it’s important to note that fleas aren’t always associated with a previous owner’s pets. Sometimes wild animals living in crawl spaces or other similar areas bring fleas with them which cause problems for homeowners.

Treating Flea Bites

When fleas are present homeowners generally notice them first by the bites they leave behind. Typically, bites are concentrated around the ankle and look very similar to mosquito bites. Fleas can be selective and will often feed on only one or a few people living in a house. Many times the people most affected are small children and infants.

Protecting Pets from Fleas

Even with the best care, it is difficult to fully protect your dog or cat from fleas. A pet with fleas will frequently scratch or try to bite the fleas in its fur. Although a flea comb may be sufficient to prevent some flea infestations, generally pet owners need to consult their veterinarian for advice on eliminating fleas from their pets. If you choose to use an over the counter flea treatment for your pet you must be aware that the materials used on cats are different that those used on dogs. Be sure you only use a cat or dog specific material on your pet and consult your vet if there are signs of irritation such as reddening of the skin or if there are thin patches in your pet’s coat.

How to get rid of Fleas

If you have pets, it is essential to prevent fleas becoming established in carpets and bedding:

• Vacuum carpets and furnishings where pets sleep to remove fleas and eggs. Use the strongest suction that will not damage the fabric. Empty the vacuum cleaner bag directly into a sealable plastic bag and immediately discard it outside your home.
• Wash pet bedding regularly in hot water to kill flea eggs, larvae, and adults within cocoons
• Take care when transferring bedding, rugs, etc, to avoid spreading flea eggs
• Consider placing pet beds in areas without carpets such as on wooden floors

Although many homeowners struggle with do it yourself flea control remedies the results are often less than satisfactory. Small problems can develop into large ones and this is when many people seek out the services of a pest control professional.

Adelaide Pest Control technicians are skilled, experienced professionals – they are state certified, fully licensed and insured applicators and are required to participate in regular training programs to maintain their proficiency as some of the best technicians in the industry. As most live in the area local to you - they have great local knowledge of each species and use that insight when developing a pest control program for your home. They can quickly and effectively eradicate this pest leaving you free of the fear and nuisance that fleas bring. They also have respect for you, your home, your family and your time.

At Adelaide Pest Control, we pride ourselves on fast, responsive service every day. If you would like further advice or to arrange an inspection call us on 1300 697 290 or click here to contact us today!