Downingtown Homeowners’ Useful Guide To Effective Flea Control

How To Identify A Flea Infestation

Fleas are reddish to dark brown and tiny—less than 1/6 of an inch—but visible to the naked eye. They don’t fly but have powerful legs and can jump up to 8” high. 
 
One of the most significant signs of fleas, whether on yourself or a pet, is frequent itching. Flea bites look like small red bumps, often in a line of three or four. Constant itching can cause hair loss, which may be an early sign of a flea infestation on a pet. 
 
You might also see flea feces, which look like tiny black specks. Flea eggs and larvae are sometimes visible behind furniture or in the cracks in floorboards. 

How Fleas Can Be Harmful To Both People And Pets

Fleas bite all potential warm-blooded hosts. The bites are itchy and painful. In addition to the itching, flea saliva can cause allergies in pets. Humans can also experience flea allergy dermatitis. These pests also transfer diseases to humans and animals. Some of these include typhus, the bubonic plague (which is extremely rare nowadays but still a concern) in humans, and tapeworms and anemia in pets. 
 
Fleas only live about one hundred days, but a female can produce as many as 2,000 eggs during that time. Infestations can increase quickly, so it’s essential to look for signs. You want to catch fleas before they become a severe problem. 

Six Environmentally-Friendly Flea Prevention Tips For Your Home

When it comes to flea prevention, there’s no such thing as “doing too much.” It’s essential to take every precaution to keep these pests out of your home. 

• Groom your pets regularly

Whether you take your pet to a groomer or do it all yourself, make sure you’re keeping your pet squeaky clean. Frequent shampoos, including regular and special flea shampoos, and brushing prevent fleas and allow you to look for them regularly. 

• Limit your pet’s contact with wild and stray animals

Fleas can be spread from animal to animal very easily. Hopefully, the other neighborhood pets aren’t a problem, but animals like raccoons, rats, and even deer can transfer fleas to your pet. Please keep your pet on a leash when outside, or at least keep them in an area you know is clear.

• Monitor your pet closely when outside

Fleas will jump at any chance to find a new host. The more time your pet spends sniffing around debris unattended, the more likely they will pick up fleas. 

• Consult your vet about year-round flea treatments

Flea prevention treatments can vary based on your pet, location, and lifestyle, so it’s essential to ask your vet for recommendations. Year-round prevention treatment is a great way to keep fleas off your pet and out of your home rather than treating the problem after it’s happened.

• Vacuum and deep clean regularly

Keeping your home clean means, you can get rid of flea eggs and larvae that might be in your home. Because they’re so small, they’re easily hidden, but regular vacuuming, especially under furniture, can help take care of infestations before they start.

• Keep your yard free of debris and trash

Accessible trash attracts wildlife pests, such as raccoons, opossums, and rodents, all of which can carry fleas. Keeping these pests away from your home can prevent fleas from reaching you or your pets. 
 
Flea control often requires teamwork between you and a professional pest control company. Total elimination becomes much easier by doing your part to prevent flea infestations.

Call The Pros For Total Flea Control For Your House

We here at Masters Touch Pest Solutions know how tough it can be to keep fleas out of your home. That’s why we offer flea treatment options for you and your family. Our pest management professionals will perform a thorough inspection to create the right plan for you. We offer both indoor and outdoor treatment as needed. To get rid of fleas in your home, call Masters Touch Pest Solutions now.