Fleas continue to pose a challenge to pet owners all across the world. Throughout the United States, fleas start becoming active in the warmer month. In the winter months, outdoor fleas, larvae and eggs can die off due to low humidity levels but the ones indoors can still survive and remain dormant. That is why all year-round flea control is highly recommended.
Flea
The everyday household flea is in the Ctencephalides felis species. The English name is cat flea which is found on your dogs, cats, rodents and birds.
Fleas have six legs and are ½” in length. With strong hind legs they jump very high. Fleas can jump up to 200 times their own length, almost as far as 13 inches.
Harm to Animals
“Fleas can transmit a surprising number of diseases to animals and humans. Fleas can cause serious harm to you and your pet’s health through their bites and when they are ingested (such as when self-grooming) by the animals they target” states PetMd.
PetMed Express lists these five health problems from fleas:
- Flea allergy dermatitis
- Hot spots
- Tapeworms
- Anemia
- Bartonella infection
Fleas can also cause severe anemia in kittens and harm them enough to kill them.
Can Fleas Hurt Humans?
Humans are not the preferred menu of fleas. Fleas prefer cats and dogs to get their blood meals and complete their lifecycle stages. Although, fleas can bite you if you allow your pets in your bed. Fleas staying on your pets’ bodies will likely remain with them but if you have used flea powders or sprays, they will jump off and land on your skin. Children tend to get bitten more frequently than adults do, so it is best to discourage your pets from getting into bed with you.
Fleas can bite humans but are typically not dangerous to humans. Although they have been known to carry diseases. They can often cause severe itchiness and in some case, dermatitis and allergies.
Fleas Spread Rapidly
A female flea can lay nearly 25 to 50 eggs per day which allows fleas to spread rapidly. Within 3 to 4 weeks, these eggs then mature into adult fleas creating new populations. You can have a full-blown flea infestation in your home very quickly. It is important to eliminate fleas as soon as you spot the first one.
Die in the Winter?
Fleas usually begin to populate our homes and gardens during later winters and early spring. But in warmer climates like Georgia, they can be found all year round. You are going to be months late and fleas will already have been established in your home if you wait until summer to treat your pet. It is important to keep up with flea control throughout winter especially if you have had a flea problem in the warmer months.
Starve
Most fleas can survive for nearly 3 months without having a blood-meal. However, fleas need blood for completing many of their lifecycle stages and females cannot lay eggs until they have had their first meal when they reach the adult stage.
Flea Fumigation
Flea fumigation is a form of flea control. Professional flea exterminators can handle the problem quickly and effortlessly.
Contact Us
Choose Proactive Pest Control for professional, comprehensive, guaranteed pest and lawn management. The pros at Proactive will work diligently to gain your trust, confidence, and your total satisfaction. CALL US TODAY at 770-800-PEST to schedule a free, no obligation inspection and evaluation for your home or business. Or, contact us for a FREE consultation. Let us show you why Proactive Pest Control is northeast Georgia’s first choice for pest, termite, and lawn services.