Fleas

What are fleas?

Reddish-brown, fleas look like specks of dirt until they leap out of the way when you try to brush them away. Fleas are ectoparasites that live most of their lives on their animal hosts. Physical features that help them navigate through the fur of a host include a body that is flattened from side to side, legs covered in spines, and strong back legs.

The most widespread flea species living in our area is the cat flea. The cat flea’s preferred hosts are cats, dogs, rodents, and other wild animals. They will feed on human blood, but we are not their favorite hosts. Fleas usually only bite us in the case of a large infestation or if we are all that is around.

Are fleas dangerous?

Fleas are not pests we want feeding on our blood or that of our pets. Their bites are itchy and irritating, they cause unpleasant rashes, and excessive itching may lead to bacterial infections. Fleas are also known for spreading tapeworms to both people and animals. Fleas are prolific pests, and an infestation can grow very large in a short time. Having fleas living in your home or yard that are continually biting you or your pets is an unpleasant experience and makes it difficult to be comfortable in your own space.

Why do I have a flea problem?

You or your pets could come into contact with fleas in a variety of places, including your yard, wooded areas, fields, campgrounds, dog parks, and grooming facilities. Once a flea jumps onto you or your pets, they will very likely find a way into your home. Fleas can also be brought into our homes accidentally on objects. When we bring rugs, furniture, or other items infested with flea eggs or larvae into our homes, we unintentionally cause a flea problem. Fleas can remain dormant for long periods if environmental conditions aren’t quite right. Once conditions are right, boom, an infestation can quickly pop-up and take over a home or yard.

Where will I find fleas?

Fleas are most active in areas where there are populations of wild animals. After mating on the back of their animal host, the eggs roll off to the ground. Flea larvae develop most successfully in areas where there is some moisture. As wild animals travel across our properties, they leave behind fleas. The soil under leaf piles and woodpiles, brush, shrubs, bushes, and decks are often popular hangouts for developing fleas.

Fleas inside our homes that are not on the back of a pet usually hide behind baseboards, in the cracks of floors, in upholstered furniture, in bedding, and in between carpet fibers. Additionally, if you own pets and have fleas problems, you can be sure that wherever your pets sleep, fleas will be present.

How do I get rid of fleas?

Fleas are one of the most troublesome and difficult to eradicate pests invading Virginia properties; partnering with a professional is the best way to eliminate these frustrating intruders. At National Exterminating Company, we can eliminate fleas from Tidewater, Hampton Roads, and Southside Virginia homes and businesses through our quality pest control services. Using low-impact, environmentally friendly pest solutions, we provide the solutions needed to get rid of current problems with fleas and stop them from returning in the future. To schedule your free inspection and consultation, call the friendly professionals at National Exterminating Company today!

How can I prevent fleas in the future?

Don’t allow fleas to take over your home or yard; with our professional services and the following tips, you can stop fleas from becoming a problem on your property:

• Keep your grass cut short, and don’t let shrubs or bushes become overgrown.
• Remove leaf piles and excess woodpiles from your yard to reduce spots in your yard where fleas can develop into adults.
• If you have pets, make sure to comb, bathe, and groom them regularly. Also, place pets on a year-round flea preventative with the help of your veterinarian.
• If you notice pets excessively scratching, check them for fleas.
• Remove bird feeders from your yard that attract rodents and other wild animals, and keep tight-fitting lids on trash cans and compost bins.
• Always inspect yourself and pets for fleas before coming indoors, especially in areas with a lot of dense vegetation or where many wild animals are present.

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