fleas

What are fleas?

Often mistaken for specks of dirt, fleas are tiny, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of warm-blooded mammals. Fleas have hard, narrow bodies that protect these tiny pests from becoming squished, and allow them to move effortlessly through the fur of their hosts. Adults have six legs, small antennae, and are wingless. They have a pair of strong hind legs that allow them to jump out of the way of danger or onto a moving host.

The flea’s preferred hosts are rodents, dogs, cats, and other animals. They also prefer people and will feed on our blood. The two most common types of fleas living throughout Nebraska are the dog flea and cat flea.

Are fleas dangerous?

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In the United States, the spread of disease by fleas is not a major concern. Problems that fleas do cause for people and our pets include delivering many raised, red itchy bites. Many people and animals are allergic to their saliva, which can cause flea bite dermatitis. Excessive itching due to the bites can lead to secondary infections.

Another health risk that fleas pose is that they’re an intermediate host for parasitic tapeworms. They can spread tapeworms to both people and animals. Additionally, a severe flea infestation on our pets can lead to anemia.

Why do I have a flea problem?

Fleas can find their way into your home after you or your pets come into contact with soil or grass infested with fleas. Once inside your house, fleas quickly make themselves at home and because they are prolific breeders, they are very difficult to eliminate.

Wild animals like mice, squirrels, deer, foxes, raccoons, and skunks often introduce fleas onto a property while traveling through our yards foraging for food. Things like bird feeders and open trash cans attract flea-ridden wild animals to a property.

Where will I find fleas?

Both cat and dog fleas live throughout the United States, with the cat flea being much more prevalent than the dog flea. Fleas live the majority of their lives on the body of their animal host feeding and breeding. At times, a flea’s eggs roll off the body of their host and onto the ground.

Outside, fleas wait for a host to happen by, hiding in tall grass, under leaf piles, and in sandy soil. They often infest yards, parks, playgrounds, campgrounds, and similar areas. Inside, eggs and adult fleas live in rugs, the cracks of floors, behind baseboards, and bedding or upholstered furniture.

How do I get rid of fleas?

Get rid of fleas from your residential or commercial property with the help of the local experts at All Star Pest Control. We will eliminate fleas and other pests from your home or business and provide the follow-up services needed to prevent them from returning. We work closely with our customers to ensure that we meet all their pest control needs.

All Star Pest Control offers exceptional pest control services, using the most modern technology and products available. If you are ready to protect your Omaha, Nebraska home or business from pests, reach out to All Star Pest Control today. Our results are guaranteed!

How can I prevent fleas in the future?

The best way to prevent future problems with fleas is to partner with the professionals at All Star Pest Control. It is also important to implement the following prevention tips:

  • Treat all pets, year-round, with a flea preventative product under the guidance of a veterinarian. Make sure to groom and bathe pets using a flea-control shampoo routinely.
  • Vacuum your home daily, especially in the areas where your pets spend the most time. Wash both your pet’s and your family’s bedding regularly.
  • Do not purchase used rugs or upholstered furniture for your home.
  • Mow your lawn often to keep the grass short.
  • Cut back overgrown vegetation, shrubs, and bushes.
  • Inspect your pets and yourself for fleas after spending time outside.
  • Remove bird and animal feeders from your property. Keep locking lids on trash cans and compost to keep rodents and other wild animals from foraging for food on your property.