Fleas are small, wingless pests that enter your home by attaching themselves to a pet dog or cat. However, this does not mean your pet is the only host they will attach themselves to for a meal. They may not have the ability to fly, but they can jump long distances, attaching themselves to whatever host they land on. Since they are so small, they may not be noticeable at first. Here are some basic facts as well as signs of fleas to allow you to better identify their presence within your home:
Fleas
Flea Pest Control
Flea Extermination Service in mid-Missouri
- Estimated 2,500 species of fleas in the world, 325 in the U.S. The most common is the Cat Flea.
- Fleas are wingless, dark-reddish brown in color, about 1/8 inches in length and oval in shape
- Can jump 7’ vertically and 13’ horizontally
- 4 stage life cycle: egg, larvae, pupa, and adult. Under normal conditions, it takes 3-6 weeks to go from egg to adult
- Adult fleas prefer to feed every 2-3 days and must feed before laying eggs
- Female fleas begin to produce eggs within 24-48 hours of its first blood meal
- Eggs are laid in batches of 20 and can be laid daily. Female fleas will lay eggs continuously until they die
- 1 female flea can lay up to 5,000 eggs in a lifetime
- Total flea infestation is comprised of 5% adults and 95% pre-adults
- The average lifespan of adult fleas is usually 4-6 weeks when a host is available
- Pre-adult fleas can live up to 1 year (adults 2-3 years) if a host is not available
Where Do Fleas Come From?
- Wildlife (squirrels, raccoons, groundhogs, opossums, deer, birds, rodents, etc.)
- Neighboring pets
- Outside in your lawn
Signs of Fleas
- Inspect your pets – look for small insects crawling in their fur around neck, face, and underside
- Examine your skin for flea bites
- Look for pepper-like droppings in pet bedding and other areas where pets rest or spend time
- While walking around with white socks, look for fleas “hitching a ride”
Flea Prevention Tips
To better protect yourself from these bloodsuckers, a proactive approach is advised.
- Treat your pets regularly with a proven quality product
- Regular vacuuming including in cracks and crevices
- Wash pet bedding regularly
- Treat lawn on a regular basis
- Keep lawn and landscaping well maintained
Areas to Inspect for Further Flea Prevention
- Pet bedding and resting areas such as: beds, furniture, rugs, etc.
- Areas where pets enter the house
- Inspect your pets
Flea Control & Flea Treatment Services in mid-Missouri
During our flea control treatment, thorough interior chemical treatment using an adulticide and an insect growth regulator (IGR) is applied. Exterior power-spray treatments are available if needed to address an infestation in the lawn and landscaping. Adulticide materials kill larvae and adult stages while the IGR will prevent eggs and larvae stages from further development. Adulticide materials have a residual life of 4-5 weeks and the IGR’s 7 months once applied. Extensive interior preparation is required prior to our flea control treatment as well as arrangements made to treat all pets. Re-treatments may be necessary within 15-30 days of the initial application to establish complete elimination. A pre-project checklist, as well as a full explanation of all preparation procedures, will be provided prior to treatment.
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FAQ Residential Flea Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Fleas
Understanding Fleas as Household Pests
Q. What are fleas, and why are they a common household pest?
A. Fleas are small, parasitic insects feeding on the blood of animals and humans. Their rapid reproduction rate makes them common household pests, often causing discomfort for pets and family members.
Identifying Signs of a Flea Infestation
Q. How can I tell if I have a flea infestation in my home?
A. Indications of a flea infestation include pets and humans experiencing itching and bites, visible fleas on pets or in living spaces, and small, dark fecal spots on pet bedding or carpets.
Health Risks Associated with Fleas
Q. Are fleas harmful, and can they transmit diseases?
A. Flea bites can cause itching and discomfort. While fleas are less known for transmitting diseases to humans, they can spread diseases and parasites among animals.
Preventing Flea Infestations in Residences
Q. What are some preventive measures to avoid flea infestations in my home?
A. To prevent flea infestations, regularly groom and treat pets for fleas, vacuum frequently, and maintain a clean, clutter-free home environment.
Flea Pest Control Methods by Professionals
Q. What methods do pest control services use to eliminate fleas in residential settings?
A. Pest control for fleas involves a combination of treatments, including targeted insecticides, growth regulators, and thorough vacuuming, addressing fleas in all stages of their lifecycle.
Duration for Eradicating Flea Infestations
Q. How long does it typically take to get rid of a flea infestation in a home?
A. The time required to fully eradicate a flea infestation varies but generally spans several weeks, ensuring all life stages of the fleas are effectively eliminated.
Safety of Flea Control Pesticides
Q. Are the pesticides used in pest control for fleas safe for pets and humans?
A. Pest control experts use approved, safe pesticides. However, it is essential to adhere to safety guidelines and keep pets and children away from treated areas during and post-treatment.
DIY vs. Professional Flea Control
Q. Can I use over-the-counter pest control products or should I hire a professional for flea control?
A. While over-the-counter products may offer some relief, professional pest control is typically more effective, especially for severe or persistent flea infestations.
Preventing Future Flea Infestations
Q. What steps can I take to prevent future flea infestations after treatment? How to kill fleas in the home?
A. To prevent future infestations, regularly treat and groom pets, maintain cleanliness, use flea prevention products, and treat upholstery and carpets where fleas may reside.
Common Flea Types in Homes and Their Characteristics
Q. Are there any specific types of fleas commonly found in residential settings, and how do they differ in behavior and appearance?
A. The most prevalent flea in homes is the cat flea, which can infest both cats and dogs. Pest control professionals can identify flea species and customize treatment plans to effectively target them.
If you have questions about in home flea treatment, contact Steve’s Pest Control today.
Steve’s Pest Control is a full-service pest control business run by a team of experts who are dedicated to taking care of your pest problems once and for all. We guarantee all of our pest control services with 100% customer satisfaction to ensure you are receiving the best.
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