Among the most prevalent types of pests that plague property owners in this region are cat fleas (Ctenocephalides Felis). Fleas rely on the blood of hosts for survival, which most commonly include cats, dogs, and other animals. Fleas are wingless creatures that have tremendous jumping abilities that allow them to leap on passing hosts.
Fleas will also leap onto humans and create itchy and irritated patches of skin. Some individuals might have a flea allergy which makes knowing how to keep fleas from biting you particularly important.
The presence of fleas is usually most apparent when they attack dogs, as they will often continuously scratch. The skin of a dog bitten by fleas typically develops red marks that become irritated. If a dog has fleas for a period, it often will experience hair loss and may develop scabs on the skin.
Have fleas invaded your home? A professional Dallas pest control expert maintains knowledge regarding what causes fleas, how to spot fleas and the best methods of safely and effectively ousting these potentially dangerous pests from your home. Many individuals that try do-it-yourself flea control products experience prolonged frustration, as these stubborn pests will persist.
The Lifecycle Of The Common Flea
When are fleas most active in the Dallas area? The American Kennel Club explains that Texas, along with other states, including California, Louisiana, and Florida, may encounter fleas year-round. More than 2,000 different species of fleas exist throughout the world.
Fleas progress through a series of phases before reaching adulthood as eggs, larvae, and pupae. When the environmental conditions are cold, flea pupae may remain burrowed in a “cocoon-like” state until the temperature rises. Female fleas may start laying eggs soon after reaching adulthood if they consume a sufficient blood meal.
Part of the difficulty with successfully eradicating fleas is that these pests breed rapidly. A single female can lay dozens of eggs per day and thousands over their lifespan.
In most cases, the females will deposit their eggs within the fur of a host, which often then become dispersed as the animal moves. Often, the eggs will become lodged in carpeting or other similar materials in homes and begin developing.
Are You Accidentally Attracting Fleas?
Fleas may enter yard areas within the fur of wild animals, including deer or rodents. Pet owners must remember the importance of adhering to a year-round flea and tick prevention plan that a licensed veterinarian implements.
How To Get Fleas Out Of Your House?
Once fleas enter a home and begin reproducing, they generally pose challenges for those attempting to expel them. Some of the best practices for eliminating fleas include:
- Avoid attracting wildlife by installing fencing, removing bird feeders, and never leaving bowls of uneaten pet food on patios or decks.
- In addition to having a veterinarian prescribed preventative treatment plan, pet owners should regularly brush and bathe cats and dogs and wash their bedding materials.
- Use a vacuum with a powerful suction that will remove eggs from rugs and carpeting.
- Before re-entering your home after participating in outdoor activities, inspect yourself and your pets for any indications of fleas.
Preventing fleas is essential because of the health-related concerns they pose. In some extreme cases, pets will experience anemia, and humans might face risks such as tapeworms.
No More Fleas In Your Dallas Home
Did you know that the experts with Dynasty Pest Control also have many years of experience assisting customers with termites, mosquitoes, ants, and many other aggravating pests that infiltrate homes and may pose health risks? Keep in mind that we stand confidently behind the quality of our pest control services with a satisfaction guarantee. Contact us today to schedule an onsite property inspection.