What are fleas?
Fleas are very small insects that feed on blood. They regularly feed on cats, dogs, humans, and wild animals like raccoons and rats.
What do fleas look like?
Fleas are ⅛” long and usually black in color.Their bodies are unusually flat, which makes them very adept at fitting into tiny spaces. They are very small and therefore very difficult to detect with the naked eye.
What do flea eggs look like?
The eggs are all white and extremely small.
Do fleas bite?
Yes, fleas bite humans, pets, and many other mammals, including rats and raccoons.
Are fleas dangerous?
Flea bites swell and itch. Their biggest danger is in their ability to transmit disease. They can infect cats and dogs with tapeworms. They are infamous for their role in transmitting the Plague.
What are the signs of a flea infestation?
The first sign of a flea infestation is usually evident in your pets. If your pet is scratching constantly, this is a strong indication that they have fleas. A single female flea can lay 500 eggs in her short lifetime, so an infestation happens quickly. Inspect your pet’s fur and skin for very small insects and droppings on their skin.
Where do fleas come from?
Fleas are infamous for their ability to jump. They can just jump 6” high in just one leap. Combine this with their small, flat body shape that can fit anywhere and go undetected and you have the makings of a rapid infestation. Usually, fleas make it into your home on your pets. But, even if you don’t have pets, you might find your home infested by fleas entering your home looking for food and shelter.
How do I get rid of fleas?
Getting rid of fleas is very challenging. It isn’t enough to simply treat your pet. Usually, you have to treat their bedding and any surface they sleep or lay on, up to and including your sofa, bed, and carpeting. Because fleas reproduce so quickly, any overlooked space, even a small one can quickly re-infest your home.
