Fleas are tiny pests that hide in tall grass, awaiting an unsuspecting animal to jump on. This animal is usually your pet that then brings fleas into your home. Fleas are known for biting warm-blooded animals and humans, causing itchy bites. A flea infestation is never a good thing and should be rectified immediately with pest control in Collegeville.
Fleas may be hard to spot, but we can help you identify the signs that fleas have invaded your home and the steps you should take to eliminate fleas from your Collegeville home and animals. Follow along to learn more about the problems fleas cause and how flea control in Collegeville can help!
How To Identify A Flea Infestation
Fleas are parasites that hitch rides on warm-blooded animals to feed and often bite the occasional human. As a nuisance pest, fleas make your home uncomfortable and pose a risk to your health. Remember to proceed with caution upon discovery of their presence.
Signs of a flea infestation include:
- Scratching
- Hair loss
- Red bumps
- Flea feces
- Flea eggs
Flea eggs will be the most challenging sign to spot, as female fleas hide their eggs in between cracks to protect them. Flea feces are less hard to find since they resemble black pellets in pet beds, carpets, and couches.
Fleas Are A Health Hazard To Both People And Pets
Fleas in Collegeville are attracted to warm-blooded hosts. Animals like cats, dogs, rodents, and wildlife are more susceptible to fleas than humans, but they will bite humans all the same. Fleas share a few similarities with bed bugs. Both spread to areas where humans and animals rest, waiting for their prey to fall asleep to begin feeding. Both of their bites are small and appear in clusters or rows of three or four. However, you'll feel a flea bite, and it shows immediately. Flea bites will resolve on their own without any treatment.
Other issues fleas cause to your health include:
- They can spread multiple diseases, such as the rare bubonic plague and murine typhus.
- In pets, fleas can transfer tapeworms and cause anemia.
- Flea saliva can cause skin dermatitis.
- Flea feces can cause allergies in children.
First aid for a flea bite is similar to a wasp sting. Use soap and water to clean the area and an ice pack to minimize swelling. Seek medical assistance if symptoms of an allergic reaction develop, such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
All The Ways Fleas Can Find Their Way Into Your Home
Fleas are wingless creatures, but they have a unique jumping ability that allows them to get where they want to go. A flea can jump at least eight inches high, about 150 times its height, thanks to its powerful legs. These legs also have bristles facing backward so they can swiftly move through hair, fur, and feathers.
Fleas piggyback to your home through various tactics, such as latching themselves onto mammals, shoes, pant legs, and blankets. A flea infestation can grow fairly quickly if left untreated. Female fleas can produce about 2,000 offspring in their average 100-day lifespan. They typically place their eggs between strands of fur, where they are shaken off and fall between cracks in the floor. You can reduce flea eggs in your home by vacuuming frequently and properly disposing of the bag in an outside trash can.
Call The Pros For Total Flea Control For Your Home
At Terra, we employ the finest pest technicians that Pennsylvania has to offer. Our local, family-owned company understands the value of quality pest control at affordable prices that are safe for you and the environment. Don't be lulled into a false sense of security with short-time fixes from store-bought products. Call us for a free estimate and schedule an inspection with one of our fully accredited pest specialists and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Collegeville.
Our certified pest experts will work with you to find the best solution for your needs. Simply fill out this form for a free, no-obligation estimate.