Fleas, those tiny but resilient pests, are a common nuisance that can turn a comfortable home into an itchy nightmare. These blood-sucking insects not only target our pets but can also infest our living spaces. The most common flea encountered in homes is the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), which infests not only cats but also dogs and even humans. Any presence of fleas can quickly become an infestation and swift action is vital.
Signs of a flea infestation include:
- Pet scratching: Excessive scratching, biting, or licking in pets is often the first sign of a flea problem.
- Red bites on humans: Flea bites on humans typically appear as small, red, itchy bumps, often found on ankles and lower legs.
- Flea dirt: Tiny, dark specks resembling ground pepper on pet fur or bedding are indicative of flea excrement, also known as flea dirt.
Keeping infestations away
Prevention is the best way to avoid an infestation. Keep pets on a regular flea prevention regimen recommended by your veterinarian. This may include topical treatments, collars or oral medications. Regularly vacuuming carpets, rugs and upholstery can also help by removing flea eggs, larvae and pupae from the environment. Yard maintenance can also cut down on the number of pests invading your property. Keep your yard tidy by mowing the lawn and removing debris, as fleas often thrive in outdoor environments.
If you are past the prevention stage, a professional pest control service can thoroughly eliminate fleas from your home. Slug-A-Bug is happy to help. We use the latest technology and environmentally responsible products to service your home. We are committed to providing top-notch service that puts every customer’s safety first. Call us today at (321) 259-7844.
For more information:
ENY-205/IG087: Fleas (ufl.edu)
EENY-011/IN137: Cat Flea, Ctenocephalides felis (Bouché) (ufl.edu)
Getting Rid of Fleas – UF/IFAS Extension: Solutions for Your Life (ufl.edu)