Serving Memphis, Cordova, Germantown & Collierville TN
Flea infestations happen more frequently than you might think: at home, in businesses, even in schools. Take what happened back in August, when Berclair Elementary School reported a flea infestation in one of the three buildings on its campus. Today on the blog, check out our guide to flea prevention.
Flea prevention is important, whether you do or do not have pets
Fleas are most associated with pets like dogs and cats. These tiny insects tag along on their fur and survive by biting their host and feeding on the blood. Fleas don’t just enter homes on pets, though. They can enter through windows, doors, or even infinitesimally small cracks.
What happens during a flea infestation
Once a flea gains entry into your home, you can be dealing with a full-blown infestation in a hurry. A female flea can lay 25 or more eggs in a single day. The larvae go into cocoons to form into adults, a process that can take weeks or even days. These pupae emerge from cocoons when they sense a warm-blooded host, either through heat or movement. As mentioned, adult fleas feed on the blood of their host, then they mate. Females start laying their eggs on or near the host, starting the reproduction cycle all over again.
The health concerns of fleas
When fleas feed, they cause painful, itchy bites. These appear as red welts. Humans typically get flea bites on their ankles or lower legs. If you have a pet, flea bites are most common on their neck, tail, ears, stomach or lower back. Fleas also transmit diseases to both pets and humans. These ailments include murine typhus and tapeworms. Earlier in history, flea bites also helped spread the bubonic plague.
How to prevent flea problems inside your home
Like any creature, fleas need food to survive. Adult fleas often starve to death within four days of leaving or being removed from a host. Fleas typically feed once every 12 hours to remain well-nourished.
For pet owners, establishing a schedule of regular flea treatments with an effective solution or flea collar is the best course of prevention. You also want to wash your pet’s bedding regularly using hot water.
What to do in the event of an infestation
If your pet gets fleas, you will want to wash them with an approved flea shampoo. Be sure to clean your dog’s bedding and any plush toys that your pet plays with frequently using hot water. Next, thoroughly clean your home. Vacuum your floors, whether they are carpeted or not, as well as any area rugs or furniture. You also want to vacuum your car thoroughly. Promptly dispose of the bag; this prevents any flea eggs from hatching inside the bag and then the larvae can return to your home.
Professional flea control in Memphis and Cordova, Tennessee
There is no substitute for the professional pest control measures that are offered by a company that is experienced and responsible in providing these services. AAA Termite & Pest has been serving commercial and residential customers in Memphis and the surrounding areas for decades. To learn how we can protect you from fleas or other pests, contact us by calling (901) 737-7378 or complete our online form.