Fleas

Fleas are tiny insects that feed on the blood of cats and dogs. When there are no pets present, they can and will feed on humans leaving behind small, itchy sores.

What do they look like?

Fleas are less than 2mm long. They are reddish/brownish black, and they are able to jump 15cm straight up.

How do they get into my home?

Fleas are always brought into a home, whether on an animal, person, blanket, etc. Once inside the fleas lay eggs that may remain dormant for long periods of time (up to a year).

I don't have pets! How can I have fleas?

Again, fleas may come in on a person, bag, blanket, etc. If a member or guest to your household has been somewhere where fleas are present, the fleas or their eggs may be tracked into your home. While fleas prefer to feed on animals, they can and will feed on humans.

There are fleas in my home. What should I do?

Step 1. If you have a cat or dog, talk to your veterinarian regarding the most appropriate treatment for your pet. There are a number of excellent products available. It is necessary to treat your pet to eliminate the problem.

Step 2. Fleas only lay eggs while on their host; however, the eggs may be deposited anywhere the host has access. Therefore, there will likely be a large deposit of eggs on special pet blankets, sofas, rugs, and kennels, or other favorite spots. Put any pet blankets or toys through a hot wash or in the freezer to kill eggs. Remove and vacuum sofa cushions and rugs to help remove eggs

Step 3. Do a thorough vacuuming of the carpets and floor. Larvae will move away from light; therefore, be sure to vacuum thoroughly under couches and chairs where your pet sleeps and lounges. Vacuuming helps to remove eggs from the carpet and floors; at very least, it stirs up the eggs so they pass into the next stage of development (the larval stage). This is important because the egg and pupa stage of flea development are extremely resistant; furthermore, the eggs may remain dormant if not disturbed for up to a year. By encouraging development, the larvae and adult fleas will move to the top of the carpet and floors where they can be more easily vacuumed up and/or chemically treated.

Step 4. If the problem persists after taking these measures, phone a professional to chemically treat the inside of your home.

How can I prevent a flea problem from re-occurring?

There are a number of ways to reduce the chances of re-infestation:

· Keep the lawn mowed and organic debris under porches and behind shrubs and sheds to a minimum. Pets passing over these areas may deposit eggs, and if out of direct sunlight, the moist environment will be ideal breeding spots for fleas.

· Be aware that piles of firewood and other objects leaning up against your building structure are potential havens for raccoons and opossums. These animals carry the common cat flea, which could then become a problem inside your home.