Nothing gets the entire household scratching like an outbreak of fleas in the house, especially when they seem to appear out of nowhere. Who usually brings the fleas in? The family dog. Some people might think removing the pet is the best course of action, but that only leads to the insect searching out another source for blood. And that source is most likely going to be you. If you've done your part by vacuuming and cleaning all the sources of infestation but the blood-suckers are still a problem— don't feel like you have to resort to wearing an insect-repelling collar. That's what expert professionals are for! They're there to help get the problem under control. Understanding and identifying the particular type of flea, how it breeds and goes about its job is the first course of action.
1. the Cat Flea Is the Most Common Flea
The cat flea is the most common type of flea found on dogs and cats. The chemical in their saliva causes the itching reaction, which is why your pets are constantly scratching when they have fleas. Besides being a transmitter of murine typhus and plague, it also acts as a host to the double pour tapeworm that can not only infect dogs and cats, but also can infect children.
2. There Are over 2500 Different Types of Fleas Worldwide
Of these 2500 different types of fleas, over 200 of these species live in the United States. There are approximately 325 different types living on 95 percent of the mammals in the U.S. as well. Georgia has the perfect climate for fleas making it one of the most flea-full states.
3. the Typical Adult Flea Is Approximately 1.5 to 3.2mm in Length
They are also oval-shaped, wingless and reddish-brown. They typically have thin bodies that make it easy to maneuver through fur. The females are larger than the males with larger abdomens as well. For size comparison, a large sesame seed is about 3.5mm and the side of a penny is 1.5 mm thick.
4. the Entire Life-Cycle of a Flea Can Last from Two Weeks to Two Years
Depending on the weather, fleas can live much longer than you might expect. Summers that are hot and wet favor flea egg-laying. Summers that are hot and dry favor adult fleas. Therefore, flea populations are biggest during the warmer months of August and September.
5. Dogs and Cats Aren't the Only Blame for Fleas
Although your cat or dog usually gets blamed for bringing fleas indoors, fleas also hitch rides on rats and mice - which, if living in your house, can help the infestation continue. A flea can also live inside with only humans as a host.
Homeowners should note that the insects live outdoors in weeds and sand. They are just waiting for a host. Though they cannot be eliminated, their environment can be controlled. The best way to keep these pests under control is an effective treatment to your home if they have already infested. Preventative measure, like using flea collars or other products on your pets, are also effective at keeping these pests out of your home.
If you happen to need pest extermination services, don't hesitate to give us a call today!
