Fleas
Fleas infest homes all over the world, mostly thanks to pets. This is true for New Zealand homes, with fleas populating residential areas in Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and more, which makes flea treatment necessary. Flea bites can irritate the skin of humans and animals alike, and in some cases can trigger an allergic reaction. A flea infestation might happen even if you don’t have any pets. If you work with animals or if the previous tenants had pets, for instance. There are about 2,000 known flea species in the globe. Protect your family and pets from pesky fleas with the flea pest control experts at Flick.
Signs of a Flea Infestation
A flea infestation can be a nightmare for both pets and humans. It is important to be able to recognize the signs of a flea infestation so that immediate actions can be taken to eliminate these pesky parasites.
Constant scratching and biting of fur by pets is one of the most evident signs of a flea infestation. Fleas are small and agile insects that feed on the blood of animals, causing severe itching and discomfort. Pets infested with fleas will often scratch or bite themselves excessively in an attempt to relieve the unbearable itchiness. This behaviour can lead to hair loss and irritated skin.
Another sign of a flea infestation is the development of skin infections in pets. Fleas not only cause itchiness, but they can also transmit various diseases and infections. The constant biting and scratching can break the skin, creating an entry point for bacteria. Infections may become apparent as red, swollen, or oozing skin around the affected area.
Flea bites on family members can also indicate a flea infestation in the home. Humans are not the preferred hosts for fleas, but they can bite humans if their preferred hosts are unavailable. Flea bites on humans typically appear as small red bumps surrounded by a halo of redness. These bites can be extremely itchy and will often be clustered in areas such as ankles, legs, or waistlines.
Preventative Measures for Fleas
Fleas can be a nuisance, not only for pets but for their owners as well. Addressing this issue is crucial in order to maintain a healthy and happy environment for both animals and people. Preventative measures are essential to prevent a flea infestation from taking place.
There are three key measures that should be taken to prevent fleas. Firstly, keeping pet flea treatments up to date is vital. Regularly applying flea treatments on pets is a proactive approach to keeping them flea-free. These treatments help to kill any existing fleas and prevent new ones from infesting the pet.
Secondly, regular vacuuming of carpeted areas and pet bedding is essential. Flea eggs and larvae tend to hide in these areas, so vacuuming can help to remove these potential sources of infestation. It is advisable to vacuum these areas at least once a week, paying special attention to corners and crevices where fleas thrive.
Lastly, excluding pets from subfloor areas can also help in preventing fleas. These areas provide a suitable environment for fleas to lay their eggs and develop. By restricting access to subfloor areas, we can lessen the chances of a flea infestation occurring.
How Fleas Are Treated
Fleas can be a persistent nuisance in homes, but Flick Pest Control offers an effective treatment plan to eliminate these pesky creatures. The treatment involves the use of a residual pesticide surface treatment and an insect growth regulator on various surfaces such as carpets, mats, and wooden flooring.
The first step in the treatment process is the application of a residual pesticide surface treatment. This treatment is designed to kill adult fleas upon contact and create a protective barrier on the treated surfaces. This ensures that any adult fleas coming into contact with the treated areas will be eliminated.
Additionally, an insect growth regulator is applied on carpets, mats, and wooden flooring. This regulator works by inhibiting the development of flea larvae, stopping them from maturing into adult fleas. By targeting the flea life cycle, this treatment prevents re-infestation and disrupts the breeding process.
It is important to note that while the treatment is effective, it works on residual contact. This means that existing flea eggs may still hatch within the next 5-21 days after treatment, resulting in a second hatching of fleas. However, the residual pesticide and insect growth regulator will continue to eliminate these newly hatched fleas upon contact, preventing further infestation.
Before the treatment, certain precautions and preparations need to be taken. These include thorough vacuuming of floors, especially in areas where fleas are likely to hide, such as carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Vacuum bags should be sealed and disposed of properly to prevent re-infestation. Personal items and furniture on the floor should be removed or raised to allow for the treatment application. Furthermore, on wooden floors, it is advised to not mop or clean the surface for at least 10 days after treatment, to allow the product to work effectively.
Commercial Pest Solutions
Integrated Flea Solutions
It is essential for businesses to prioritise the health and safety of their employees and customers. Fleas not only pose a health risk but also damage property and reputation. Flick’s professional commercial pest control services provide tailored solutions to prevent and eliminate any pest infestations, ensuring a clean and hygienic environment for everyone. Our regular inspections and treatments help to maintain a pest-free workplace and protect your business from potential pest related damage. Trusting in Flick’s commercial pest control solutions is a smart investment in the long-term success and reputation of any business.
Learn more here or call 0800 710 010.
Common Flea Questions
Where do fleas live?
The microscopic flea may survive in a variety of conditions, although it likes wet, humid, and shaded environments. Tall grass and wood piles are frequent features. They are most likely to be found in and around carpet and pet bedding inside the house. They are able to weave in and out of fur, hair, or feathers thanks to their compressed shape. They might be picked up by your pet when walking around the neighbourhood or in the yard.
What are flea bites like?
Flea bites typically show up on adults as a round red mark with a tiny dark red dot in the centre. While some people with allergies may suffer swelling and hives, itching is occasionally noticed. The more delicate skin of children may react more severely. Bite sites are typically localised on the ankles and lower legs. Apply calamine lotion to soothe, wash the area with a mild antiseptic or soap, and use ice to reduce swelling and irritation. If swelling persists, consult a physician.
Why are fleas considered pests?
Fleas can be quite annoying and uncomfortable, especially for your cherished pet. Additionally, they are capable of transferring to a human host and feeding on them. They cause dog allergies and skin disorders like dermatitis and mange, as well as leaving bite marks and feeding on human skin flakes. Additionally, they can spread diseases and germs in some nations and give cats and dogs tapeworms.
Do I need professional flea control?
A programme of pet flea treatments is the first line of defence. Fleas can, however, remain dormant for up to a year before sensing movement from a host. They can withstand clawing and other attempts by people and animals to get rid of them because of their hard bodies’ durability and great resistance to pressure. The most effective technique to solve the issue is to fully treat the home.
When are fleas active?
Since fleas enjoy warm, muggy weather, summer is their favourite season. Even though they lack wings, they can nevertheless move about fairly easily at these times. Most fleas can leap up to 18 cm in height or 33 cm horizontally due to their lengthy legs, which allow them to jump enormous distances. They are among the best jumpers in the world when compared to the size of their bodies! In fact, if people had the ability to jump like fleas, they would be able to cover 3,000 miles per hour in a thousandth of a second.
Common Flea Species
Common Fleas
Apppearance
Fleas are tiny — 2.5mm — and are either yellow, red, or dark brown. They feature an oval-shaped abdomen, a small head, and six legs that dangle from the insect’s body and carry them into the air before landing on a host.
Lifestyle
While attached to the host, female fleas lay their eggs. As they slowly fall to the ground, the eggs will stay there until they hatch. Flea life cycles are brief. The typical flea goes through three stages before becoming an adult, requiring ranging from 2-3 weeks to many months to complete each one. Adult cat and dog fleas can survive for up to a year in the most perfect conditions, but they only have a short lifespan without a host—only approximately 1-2 weeks.
Habits
Fleas are parasites. Adult fleas obtain the majority of their nutrition by biting and sucking the blood of their hosts. Fleas seen on cats and dogs can also infest humans and other mammals in the wild, including rats and opossums. An animal’s most vulnerable state is while it is resting, making that the ideal time to feast. Fleas are so small that you probably won’t notice you have them until you notice your pet scratching excessively or you notice tiny bite marks on yourself.
I found Fleas! Help!
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Call a Professional
Call Flick Pest Control Immediately.
If you encounter fleas in your home or business, you may be dealing with an infestation. Don’t wait until the problem gets out of hand – we can help protect your property and ensure the health and safety of those around you. Fill out the form below or call 0800 710 010 today.
Leave the Fleas Alone
Trust Flick Pest Control to handle the situation
Our pest control technicians have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to effectively and safely eliminate pests from your home or business. Attempting to treat fleas on your own can be risky and may not fully eradicate the problem.
We will and ensure a safe and effective outcome for your property.
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Flick’s pest control experts will perform a thorough inspection of the property to identify any areas where fleas may be present, followed by the development of a treatment plan tailored to the specific needs of the situation. By implementing effective pest control strategies, we can help ensure a pest-free environment for you.