Fleas

What are fleas?

Fleas are ectoparasites; they live and feed on the outside of their host making them a common pest invader here in our Lakewood service area. Fleas feed on the blood of people and animals using their specialized, piercing mouthparts. They have hard bodies that are dark, reddish-brown in color. Fleas are wingless and extremely small in size, and are often mistaken for a fleck of dirt. They have large, powerful hind legs that they use to jump great distances. Fleas can jump up to 150 times their own height, or about about 6-8 inches vertically.

Are fleas dangerous?

Yes, fleas are considered dangerous. They are responsible for spreading diseases and are intermediate hosts for parasitic tapeworms. Fleas bite people and animals to feed on their blood; they typically attack and bite the entire bodies of animals and attack the legs and feet of people. A flea bite appears as a small, red spot that has a darker, reddish halo around it. Some people and animals are allergic to their saliva and can develop flea allergy dermatitis. Pets severely infested with fleas may also develop anemia, which can make them very weak and ill.

Why do I have a flea problem?

Fleas are commonly introduced onto properties by wild animals like deer, skunks, rabbits, squirrels, and chipmunks. Fleas most often find their way into homes or other structures on the backs of pets like cats and dogs after they spend time outside in a flea-infested area. Fleas also jump onto people’s shoes and clothing and are unknowingly transported inside.

Your home could also become infested with fleas after purchasing used furniture or rugs that are infested with adult fleas or eggs, and it is important to note that even if you don’t have pets, but your home was previously occupied by a pet owner, there could be eggs inside of your home that will hatch and cause an infestation. Fleas are prolific breeders, and just a few of these pests being introduced into your home can quickly lead to a large-scale infestation.

Where will I find fleas?

Outside, fleas are most commonly found living on the backs of their host while feeding on its blood. If they aren’t feeding, you will find them outside in shady, damp areas where pets and animals frequent. Flea populations often flourish in areas of high grass, under leaves, or in the dirt underneath shrubs, bushes, decks, and porches. Inside, fleas hideout in upholstered furniture, rugs, cracks in floors, behind baseboard heaters, in bedding, and in areas where pets frequent.

How do I get rid of fleas?

To eliminate current problems with fleas, as well as prevent future problems, it is best to partner with an experienced professional. At Bugaboo Pest Control, our professionals provide customers with the residential or commercial pest control services needed to solve your unique flea problem. To learn more about our full-service extermination services that are offered throughout New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, and northern Delaware, contact Bugaboo Pest Control today!

How can I prevent fleas in the future?

Fleas commonly hitchhike their way onto properties in New Jersey and the surrounding areas, but the following tips can deter these parasitic pests from your property:

• Treat all pets with a flea-preventative product under the guidance of their veterinarian.
• Inspect your pets and the clothing of yourself and family members after spending time outside.
• Do not purchase used rugs and upholstered furniture for your home.
• Regularly wash pet and family bedding.
• Regularly groom your pets.
• Remove bird and other wild animal feeders from your property.
• Vacuum your home regularly, especially in areas where your pets spend the most time.
• Keep your grass cut short and maintain shrubs and bushes to prevent them from overgrowing.