Fleas

What are fleas?

Fleas are blood-sucking ectoparasites that feed on animals and people. There is good news though - they prefer animal hosts over human hosts. Both males and females feed on blood using their specialized mouthparts. Fleas are tiny in size and only grow to between 1/16th and 1/8th of an inch in length, or about the size of a speck of dirt. Their hard, flat bodies have a shiny appearance and are dark brownish-red in color. Fleas are wingless and have powerful back legs that allow them to jump to great heights.

Are fleas dangerous?

Fleas are considered dangerous pests, as they transmit some serious diseases and parasites, including tapeworms, which can be passed to both humans and animals. Though not a major threat, fleas are responsible for spreading plague and typhus in the United States. Flea saliva can cause an allergic reaction and severe itchy dermatitis in people and pets. The constant scratching of bites can create a secondary infection that requires medical attention. In addition, if your pet has a severe enough infestation, fleas' constant feeding can cause anemia, making your pet lethargic and ill.

Why do I have a flea problem?

Fleas are introduced onto properties and into yards by wild animals, especially rodents. Once on your property, they will stay until a host passes by that they can attach themselves to and feed on. Often the new host is you or your pet, who then introduces them into your home. Another way that fleas can be introduced into homes includes on rodents or wildlife that are nesting inside it. They may also find their way inside on used furniture or on a rug that is infested with their eggs or larvae.

Where will I find fleas?

Fleas live outside in shady, sandy, moist areas like in high grasses, underneath organic debris, or in the dirt underneath shrubs and bushes. They will wait in these hiding spots until a new host happens by. Fleas that have found their way inside live on our pets and in the areas where our pets spend most of their time. Fleas also take up residence and lay their eggs in the cracks of floors, behind baseboards, in upholstered furniture, in bedding, and in rugs.

How do I get rid of fleas?

The best way to solve your northern New Jersey property’s flea problem is to partner with a local pest control company. When you partner with Heritage Pest Control, our reliable and friendly professionals will be at your residential or commercial property within 24 hours to assess the infestation and recommend treatment. We are proud to provide all of our customers reliable, affordable, and environmentally friendly pest solutions. To learn more about our flea control services, reach out to us!

How can I prevent fleas in the future?

Listed below is a quick prevention guide to help you make your New Jersey home and business as unappealing as possible to fleas:

• Keep your lawn cut short.

• Prune overgrown shrubs and bushes.

• Remove bird feeders that can attract rodents and other wild animals to your property.

• Place pets on a year-round flea and tick control program under the guidance of their veterinarian.

• Inspect yourself, your children, and your pets for fleas before coming inside after spending time outside.

• Routinely vacuum areas where your pets spend most of their time.

• Regularly wash pet bedding on high heat settings.

• Do not purchase used furniture and rugs for use in your home.