Why Fleas Are the Worst Roommates (and How to Kick Them Out)
Fleas are resilient, blood-sucking insects that have existed for millions of years. Females
consume fifteen times their body weight in blood daily and can produce a quarter of a million fleas in thirty days. Once they have a blood meal, the female fleas begin to lay eggs. Twenty five adult female fleas can produce as many as a quarter of a million fleas in just thirty days!
Fleas are Bad News
Fleas can cause severe allergic reactions, flea bite dermatitis, and secondary infections in pets.
In extreme cases, pets may become anemic. Fleas also bite humans and transmit diseases like
tapeworms, Murine Typhus, and Bubonic Plague.
How do pets get fleas?
Fleas can jump 150 times their length and hitch rides on clothing, shoes, blankets, or towels that
touch the ground.
Can't see fleas but your pet is scratching?
Your pet might be reacting to flea bites. Flea dirt, resembling pepper specks, indicates flea's presence. Act quickly to eliminate them.
Getting rid of fleas
Treat all pets and their environments. Flea shampoos kill fleas but offer little residual protection.
Utilize flea combs, sprays, collars, powders, and dips, ensuring products are suitable for pet's age and species.
Conquering the Ferocious Flea
Attack – Surround – Defeat!
When you are fighting fleas, it is indeed a war. You must treat everywhere that fleas live and
reproduce.
Start by eliminating the fleas on your pet. Ideally, you can schedule an appointment for your pet
with the vet, while you, or a professional exterminator, thoroughly de-flea your home, yard, and
car.
Wash all your pet's bedding in hot, soapy water. Vacuum your carpets and furniture thoroughly,
then seal and throw away the vacuum bag. Steam cleaning your carpets and upholstery is also
helpful in removing biting fleas and eggs.
Treat your yard with spray or pelleted insecticide (containing insect growth regulator IGR).
When you are finished, your pet and his environment should be completely free of fleas.
Keeping your Pet Flea-Free
Year-round flea control includes oral or topical products. Consult your vet and follow instructions
for your pet's specific needs. Continuous protection is more cost-effective than treating
infestations.
Disadvantages
Fleas have to come in contact with the product to be killed. That means that fleas actually have
to get on, and could possibly bite your pet, before they die. There is also a possibility of skin
irritation at the site of application.
Sweet Success
With professional guidance and diligent treatment, you can effectively combat fleas and protect
your pets and home.
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