Flea Identification & Prevention

What are fleas?

Fleas are tiny, ectoparasites that feed off the blood of people and animals, and you can find them living around the world. Fleas are wingless and have hard bodies that help prevent them from being easily squished. They range from dark reddish-brown to black and have large hind legs that allow them to jump easily onto their hosts or out of the way of danger. Their bodies are flat and covered with rear-facing spines that help keep them from falling off their host. The most common species of fleas living in the Carolinas are the cat flea, dog flea, human flea, and Oriental rat flea.

Are fleas dangerous?

Fleas are unwanted pests. To feed on their hosts, they bite. They prefer animal hosts, but they will feed on people if animals are unavailable. Many people and animals are allergic to their saliva and develop a raised, red, and very itchy rash.

Fleas carry and transmit some disease-spreading pathogens, although the spread of disease is not as much of a concern in the United States as in developing countries. In our area, a more important problem associated with fleas is that they are intermediate hosts for parasitic tapeworms and transmit them to both people and animals. Never ignore fleas that are in your yard or home. We offer eco-friendly flea control for your home or business to help take care of these dangerous pests.

Why do I have a flea problem?

Fleas are prolific breeders, and their populations can explode on any property or in any home. They find their way onto properties on the backs of rodents and other wild animals. If fleas live on your property and come in contact with you or your pets, they will end up in your house. They are also brought into homes by hitchhiking inside used rugs, furniture, or on the backs of invading rodents.

Where will I find fleas?

Fleas spend most of their lives on the backs of their hosts, feeding, and breeding; their eggs roll off a host and allow an infestation to spread. Outside, adult fleas looking for a host hide out in tall grass, under leaves, and in areas of shade like under decks and shrubs. Yards, parks, dog parks, and campgrounds are common places where fleas live in large numbers. Inside, adult fleas and their eggs stay hidden in rugs, the cracks of floors, upholstered furniture, bedding, and behind baseboards.

How do I get rid of fleas?

If you are looking for pest control in the Wake Forest area, turn to the local and experienced pest professionals at Aruza Pest Control. We offer home and business owners the benefits of comprehensive pest control, superior customer service, and the peace of mind that comes with our guaranteed services. Our eco-friendly solutions solve current pest problems and keep them from returning. For home and business owners who want to protect their property from fleas, contact Aruza Pest Control today!

How can I prevent fleas in the future?

In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, use the following tips to prevent fleas on your property:

• Vacuum your home regularly, especially in the areas where your pets spend the most time.

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

• Regularly wash pet bedding.

• Keep the grass on your property cut short.

• Treat all pets with a flea preventative product under the guidance of a veterinarian.

• Remove bird and animal feeders from your yard that attract rodents and other wild animals, and keep locking lids on trash cans.