Homeowner Tips to Fight Fleas
As the weather continues to warm up, pests that we usually encounter outside may soon be attempting to make their way indoors.
For the most part, these pests are mainly bothersome to us humans but some can also make our pets crazy! With loyal customers stretching across from Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina to Louisiana, Texas and Oklahoma, Massey Services reminds homeowners that fleas are common outdoor pests that can make your home their own by traveling on our pets.
Did You Know…Fleas
- can live for about 100 days.
- do not fly. They jump from one place to another.
- can produce 400-500 offspring in their lifetime.
Overview of Fleas:
Fleas are parasites that feed on the blood of any warm-blooded host. The most common species is the cat flea, which often feasts on cats, dogs and humans.
Habits of Fleas:
Fleas transport themselves on rodents and other mammals, and usually remain on their hosts at all times. They infest both household pets and wild animals like opossums, raccoons and skunks. Fleas use their powerful legs to jump as high as 8 inches vertically and 16 inches horizontally. They can also be found on shoes, pant legs or blankets, which can transfer the fleas to new environments.
Tips to Get Rid of Fleas:
- Remove and wash pet bedding in hot soapy water or replace.
- Thoroughly vacuum all rugs, carpeted areas, baseboard areas and closet floors. Also vacuum under beds, furniture, as well as between and under furniture cushions. Special attention should be given to common pet resting and sleeping areas. Vacuuming removes flea eggs, feces (food for the larvae) and some adult fleas/ticks.
- Vacuum and then mop all vinyl, wood and concrete floors. Special attention should be given to cracks along the edge of walls.
- Be sure to discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a plastic bag that can be tightly closed and place in a trash receptacle outside of the home.
It’s important to keep fleas out of your home, not only because their bites cause severe itching, but they can cause diseases in humans and animals. Fleas can transmit cat-scratch fever, typhus and plague. If you suspect you have a flea infestation in your home or want to protect yourself from potential attacks, call a professional service for proper pest control methods.
The experts at Massey Services can conduct a thorough inspection at no charge and provide you with a detailed report of their findings. They will also recommend a customized abatement program that’s right for your home.