You might not think much of having fleas, but these tiny pests can cause huge problems once an infestation develops. For pet owners, fleas are always a concern for the health of their four-legged friends. But fleas can cause problems for people, too. In fact, they can make living comfortably almost impossible. So, before you get to thinking fleas are just a common problem all pet owners have to deal with, you should know the dangers of having fleas in your Folsom home.
About Fleas
Fleas are a common problem for dogs and cats but may also be found in domesticated birds. These tiny parasitic insects feed on blood for survival and reproduce rapidly. Unlike ticks and mosquitoes that don’t fare well indoors, bloodsucking fleas thrive in indoor environments and can use your pets to spread an infestation throughout the home.
While fleas can be seen with the naked eye, they aren’t necessarily easy to spot. So, it’s important to be on the lookout for the warning signs of fleas. Some indicators of a flea infestation in your home include:
- Pets scratching excessively
- Hair loss or bald spots in pet fur
- Flea droppings that resemble small black seeds
Just as your pets are most likely to introduce fleas to your home in the first place, their health, and behavior are also good indications of a flea infestation.
Are Fleas Dangerous?
Because fleas are such common pests, we don’t always think of flea infestations as being a problem. However, once a flea infestation has taken root in your home, it will take more than a flea bath to get rid of it. With plenty of carpeting, furniture, and blankets to hide in, fleas can survive indoors for as long as they want. And there are plenty of dangers to having fleas living in your home.
First, fleas can spread disease. Though very rare, fleas are still known to cause bubonic plague in humans. More common, however, are infections as a result of excessive scratching when people are bitten by fleas.
Fleas may also aggravate allergies. Flea saliva can trigger an allergic reaction, and the presence of fleas has also been linked to respiratory problems.
For pets, excessive scratching can lead to open sores which are prone to infection. Loss of blood may even lead to anemia in some pets. And the mental strain that the constant discomfort of flea bites causes is incredibly difficult for pets and people alike.
And you should know that even if you don’t have pets, you can still get fleas. These pests love to gather in shady, cool places outdoors. If you’re a hiker, trail runner, or just someone who likes to hang out at the park, you could be picking up fleas.
Ways You Can Prevent Fleas
While fleas are tough to get rid of, you can prevent flea infestations by following a few simple tips:
- See your veterinarian – The first and most important step in preventing a widespread flea infestation is to keep up with regular visits to your vet.
- Clean up – Regularly vacuum floors to eliminate fleas, eggs, and larvae. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag afterward.
- Heat treat your laundry – Use the hottest setting on your washing machine and dryer to kill fleas in bedsheets and clothing.
- Eliminate hiding spots – Mow the lawn often and trim up any overgrown vegetation where fleas can hide. Remove piles of leaves and other yard waste.
When it comes to fleas, the best course of action is always to consult with your vet and the experts at Neighborly Pest Management. With the best protection for your pets and for your home, your flea problems will be a thing of the past. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our flea control offerings.