First of all, there are many species of fleas. Around the world, there are about 2,500 different species, but the most common flea to get into our homes and annoy our pets is the cat flea.
Fleas can be difficult to see just with the human eye, but they aren’t invisible. They are only about 3 mm long, and fleas are identified most easily by the fact that they look like small red or brown dots on an animal’s fur. They aren’t able to fly, and they are a reddish-brown color.
Another thing about fleas that many people don’t realize is that they can also be found in carpets, and while they are common in households that own pets, even homes without pets can have fleas.
And, while they might seem small, fleas are known to spread many illnesses including the Bubonic plague, bartonellosis, and tapeworm. They can cause health issues for both people and pets.
How Do Fleas Get Inside?
Fleas are generally more of a problem for animals when it comes to bites, but they can bite humans, too. However, unlike ticks, they don’t use humans as hosts. Pets can bring fleas inside after picking them up from another animal or from outside. When not on a host, fleas live in areas full of shade and vegetation where they wait for an animal to walk by.
Whether or not you have pets, fleas can also get inside a home if you bring them in on secondhand items. They can infest upholstered furniture as well as carpets and rugs.
The other main way that fleas can enter a dwelling is when they are brought in on other pests such as rodents or wildlife. Fleas often live on rodents, raccoons, and even deer. So, it’s also important to try and keep these pests away from your property.
Seven Flea Prevention Tips
Because of the health risks associated with fleas, taking steps to prevent them is essential. Doing so can help keep yourself, your family, and your pets healthy. Here are seven of the best flea prevention tips:
- Inspect second-hand items for signs of fleas.
- Work with your vet to keep your pets treated for fleas throughout the year.
- Clean up organic debris around your yard including leaf piles and grass clippings.
- Focus on rodent prevention by keeping trash cans covered and cleaning up food spills immediately.
- Further, prevent rodents by fixing holes in the walls and foundation with a combination of steel wool and wire mesh.
- Deter other host animals, such as local wildlife, from getting into your yard by installing fences and removing bird feeders.
- Get help from pest control experts.
Advice And Assistance With Flea Problems
The best way to handle flea issues is by working with your vet as well as the pest control professionals at Aerex Pest Control. We can provide ongoing assistance for fleas and pests like rodents that bring them inside.
Learn more about our residential pest control options by calling us. You can also request a quote.