At Advanced Integrated Pest Management, one of the most frequent questions we get from customers calling in with a sudden flea issue is “Where did these things come from?!” Which is a valid question, where do fleas come from?
Flea season is just kicking off in many areas of California and Nevada, here are a few commonly asked questions we receive each year when the fleas come out.
What is the Difference Between Dog and Cat Fleas?
Have you ever asked yourself, do cats and dogs have the same fleas. The answer is both yes and no. Here’s why… Cat fleas are much more common in North America, while dog fleas are more typically found in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Despite their name, cat fleas infest cats and dogs, as well as humans. Check out this resource for identifying fleas and ticks.
Do Fleas Infest Wildlife, Too?
Do Squirrels carry fleas? What about raccoons? Do deer carry fleas? Absolutely! Raccoons, deer, squirrels, sheep, cattle, rabbits, even poultry are susceptible to fleas. Fleas are not very particular with the type of animal they hitch a ride on, as long they are provided with a viable host, they will bunker down.
Are Flea Bites Dangerous?
For pets and humans, flea bites can be uncomfortable, often quite itchy, but are rarely dangerous. Some humans and pets may have an allergic reaction to flea bites, making the discomfort more severe or possibly even painful. More danger is present if your pet or child is scratching their bites too aggressively, which could lead to infection.
Do I Have Fleas?
These tiny little annoying pests can become a pain in the neck to deal with if your home has been infested by them. Make sure to check for flea dirt on any of your pets. These are dark specks on the skin that don't move and is actually the feces from a fleas. You can also check your pet's skin for any sort of flea bite, which will typically become red and irritated.
What is the Best Way to Prevent Flea Infestations?
Flea prevention is a three-part process, beginning with a protective barrier created by a regular maintenance pest control program. In addition to treating the outdoors, care should be taken inside the home after a flea issue occurs. Vacuuming regularly, cleaning linens, and examining pets on a regular basis are all essential in controlling or preventing a flea issue.
Where Do Fleas Come From?
Families with only one pet, or no pet at all, are often confused as to how fleas entered their home in the first place. To answer this question, you must first ask yourself how are fleas transferred. It is commonly believed that fleas are only transferred from one animal to the other, but the truth is this is actually very rare. Most fleas stay on the same host for their entire lifetime unless they are forcibly removed. Flea issues usually begin outdoors. Fleas develop from eggs to larvae, often not leaving their cocoon until a host is close enough to jump on.
Which Outside Areas Are Fleas Most Likely to Inhabit?
Developing fleas cannot survive long in extreme heat. The outside areas most likely to contain fleas are grassy areas in full or partial shade. While fleas do not mind some moisture, they cannot survive very heavy rains or flooded areas. Fleas can often be found in areas they might find a viable host, such as a dog house or outdoor sitting area.
Experiencing a flea issue in or around your home?
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