Flea Identification & Prevention

What are fleas?

Cat fleas and dog fleas are two different species but are very similar; in fact, the physical differences can only be seen with the help of a microscope. Both cat fleas and dog fleas feed on the blood of many different animals, not just dogs, and not just cats. Other common animal hosts of both species include raccoons, skunks, deer, squirrels, mice, rats, and other wild animals. Though fleas will feed on human blood, we certainly aren't their preferred hosts; they typically only feed on us as a last resort or in the case of a large indoor infestation.

The most widespread flea species in our area and across the country is the cat flea. Fleas are small and wingless but can jump long distances and great heights using their strong back legs. Their bodies are reddish-brown and covered and have microscopic hair. Fleas are flattened from side to side to help them move easily through their host's fur.

Are fleas dangerous?

Fleas are biting pests and are always unwanted in our yards and homes. More often than not, flea bites produce an itchy rash; scratching at the bites can cause a secondary infection, scabbing, and hair loss in pets. Fleas can spread diseases and parasitic tapeworms to both people and animals during the feeding process.

When fleas enter our homes and cause a large-scale infestation, their presence is unsettling and makes it so you and your pets can't live comfortably. Nothing is more disturbing than sitting on your couch and seeing out of the corner of your eye a flea jump across your lap.

Why do I have a flea problem?

Like other parasitic pests, fleas travel wherever their hosts take them. Since a flea's preferred host is an animal, properties near fields, meadows and wooded areas are most likely to experience problems with these fleas.

As rodents and other animals move across your yard or spend time foraging for food there, they leave behind fleas.

When you and your pets spend time outside enjoying your yard, you can come into contact with the fleas and accidentally introduce them into your house.

Fleas also moved from home to home unknowingly on things like used pieces of upholstered furniture or rugs infested with eggs, larvae, pupae, or adult fleas.

Another common entry point for fleas is on the backs of rodents that have moved into your home to nest. As they move around your home looking for nesting materials and food sources, they spread the fleas throughout your house.

Where will I find fleas?

Fleas have short lives, with adults living only a few months. After hatching, they quickly move through their life cycle until new adults find a host. Fleas spend their adult lives consuming blood meals and breeding.

Flea eggs fall off the back of animal hosts and onto the ground and develop into new adults. Any cycle the flea is in, if they are not on an animal host, they are living in damp, dark areas.

• Spaces under shrubs and bushes
• Spaces under decks
• The soil under mulch or leaf piles
• Within woodpiles

Fleas are often jumping around upholstered furniture, rugs, bedding, folded linens, and around pet bedding in our homes.

How do I get rid of fleas?

Don't share your property with biting fleas for another day. Partner with a professional to help rid your property of fleas and the larger pests like rodents that introduce them.

If fleas have become a problem for you on your property, partner with us at All Seasons Pest Control. We are a family-owned business dedicated to treating our customers like family. Our professionals are local to the area and understand the pest control needs of our local customers. If you are looking for an effective solution to your Texas property's flea problems, know that we have the answer you need for a flea-free property!

Learn more about ridding your Arlington area property of fleas and other pests through our safe, effective, and eco-friendly pest control options. Give us a call today!

How can I prevent fleas in the future?

Stop fleas from taking over your Texas property with the help of our most effective flea prevention tips.

• If you own pets, make sure under the guidance of their veterinarian, they are on a year-round flea preventative.
• Keep your grass cut short.
• Cut shrubbery back from your home's exterior to help keep the soil dry and less attractive to fleas. 
• Regularly vacuum your home to remove stray fleas from the carpet and upholstered furniture.
• Keep flea-covered rodents out of your home by sealing gaps and other openings in your home that could allow them inside. 
• Make your yard less attractive to rodents and wild animals by removing bird feeders, keeping lids on trash cans, and regularly harvesting gardens and fruit trees.