Fleas

What Are Fleas?

Fleas are wingless, reddish-brown in color, and have strong back legs that they use to jump 150 times their height. Their narrow bodies, along with their powerful back legs, allow them to move through the fur of their host quickly. They also have specialized piercing mouthparts they use to hold onto their victims while feeding on their blood.

Fleas are ectoparasites – meaning they live and feed on the outside of their host. Their only source of food is the blood of warm-blooded animals like cats, dogs, rodents, wild animals, and sometimes people. The most common flea in the Dallas area is the cat flea. These tiny parasites are the size of a speck of dirt; despite their small size, they are difficult to squish because of their hard bodies.

Flea Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are fleas dangerous?

Fleas are also intermediate hosts for parasitic tapeworms and are capable of transmitting them to both people and animals. Another serious concern with fleas is their bites and reactions to those bites. A flea bite usually results in a small red spot encircled by a reddish halo. People and animals allergic to flea saliva develop flea allergy dermatitis which causes an intense need to itch, the constant itching can lead to secondary infections.

Though a minimal concern in the United States, fleas are responsible for carrying and transmitting diseases to people. Also, pets and animals that are severely infested with fleas may develop anemia which can make them weak and ill.

Why do I have a flea problem?

You can experience problems with fleas for a variety of reasons, some of the most common reasons are listed below:

• Wild animals like deer, skunks, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks have introduced them into your yard.
• Your cat or dog came into contact with fleas in your yard, at the park, at a campsite, or while at the groomers.
• Fleas have jumped onto your shoes or clothing and you unknowingly introduced them inside your home.
• Used furniture or rugs purchased for your home were harboring adult fleas or their eggs.
• Your home was previously occupied by a pet owner. Once suitable environmental conditions are met, eggs that have been lying dormant hatch and create an infestation.

At the first signs of fleas in your yard or home, it is important to seek professional help through your pet’s veterinarian and by contacting a pest control expert. Fleas are prolific breeders and a small infestation left untreated quickly turns into a large infestation.

Where will I find fleas?

Fleas spend most of their lives outside living on the backs of their hosts. Outside, they hide in shady, damp areas where pets and other animals frequent. Common flea hiding spots include tall grass, under leaves, and in the dirt under decks and shrubs. Fleas living inside, when not on a host, hide in rugs, cracks in floors, behind baseboards, and upholstered furniture and bedding.

How do I get rid of fleas?

Locally owned and family-operated, All-Safe Pest & Termite is the best choice to get rid of fleas from your Dallas home or business. We offer fast response times and peace of mind knowing that your pest problems will be solved, and they won’t return. Our experienced pest control professionals provide top-quality pest control services using the latest and most effective products to eliminate fleas from Dallas properties. Discover why your neighbors choose All-Safe Pest & Termite for their pest control needs. Give us a call today!

How can I prevent fleas in the future?

Prevent problems with fleas by partnering with All-Safe Pest & Termite and by implementing the following flea prevention tips:

• Treat all pets with a flea prevention product under the guidance of a veterinarian.
• Regularly bathe and groom pets.
• Inspect your clothes after spending time outside.
• Inspect your pets for fleas before bringing them inside after spending time outdoors.
• Vacuum your home regularly, especially in areas where your pets spend the most time.
• Wash pet bedding frequently.
• Keep pets off of furniture and beds.
• Do not buy used rugs and upholstered furniture for your home.
• Keep the grass on your property cut short.
• Maintain a stone or rock barrier between any wooded areas or fields and your yard.
• Remove bird and animal feeders from your property that attract rodents and other wild animals.