Fleas

Fleas are tiny, wingless parasites with a life cycle of approximately four weeks.  Adult fleas are amazing leapers and exist exclusively on the blood of mammals and birds, potentially passing on diseases from one host to another.

Household pets such as cats and dogs are regular breeding grounds for fleas and infestations are also commonly found in homes previously occupied by domestic animals.  Flea larvae can remain dormant for over two years and will only emerge when they sense the vibrations of a nearby host.

People react differently to flea bites, ranging from small red marks to more extensive rashes and itching.  Cat fleas are usually responsible for flea bites in humans, although bird fleas and dog fleas are also key culprits.  They do not live on human skin, instead taking the opportunity to bite when you’re near the carpet, pet bedding or furnishings they’re inhabiting.

The reasons for treatment are obvious – they cause discomfort to humans and pets; they can transmit tapeworm; visitors will be bitten and may take fleas back to their homes.  Several visit treatments can sometimes be required.

TREATMENT – After a survey and risk assessment has been carried out, our Pest Control Technician would decide on the best treatment to suit your situation.  This would probably consist of a residual spray treatment, followed by fumigation.  Depending on the size of the infestation, additional treatments may well be required.