Getting Rid Of Fleas

 Friday, October 21st 2022, 4:00 AM

How To Tackle A Flea Infestation

San Jose, United States - October 21, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Fleas are a common pest, especially in families with pets like dogs or cats. Pets get fleas in no time, and it takes no time for them to breed and become an infestation. While they cause a lot of distress to the affected pets, fleas can also become an issue for the whole household.

Fleas are tiny, and it isn't easy to get rid of them. With their tiny bodies jumping high and far, cornering them or squishing them is almost impossible.  Habitat Pest Control shares some ways to eliminate them. This pest control company in San Jose, CA, has tried and tested different methods of dealing with different pests. They offer Written Guaranteed Results for their pest control services. 

Fleas are very tiny wingless insects. They are parasites that feed on the blood of their hosts to stay alive. Though they do not fly, they move quickly, using their back legs to jump up to 50 times their body length. Pets like dogs and cats get fleas from other animals. These insects need mammal blood to survive and easily move from pets to humans. They breed fast, and just a few can multiply into an infestation. They can then infest the carpets, bedding, and furniture. Fleas are tiny, with flattened bodies and tough exoskeletons that make them difficult to crush. Because they jump away quickly, they escape most attempts to kill them.

Signs Of Flea Infestation

• Pets scratch themselves a lot
• Pets might be irritable
• Seeing fleas when pet fur is examined
• Flea bites that are reddened on the pet's skin
• Red flea bite marks on humans
• Flea dirt which is the dried feces and blood fleas leave 

Ways Of Getting Rid Of Fleas

Killing Fleas On Pets

The first thing families with pets must do is treat the pet for fleas, as pets are most likely the primary source of fleas. It might be better to consult a vet. But those who want to try DIY care can use a flea comb first. The neck and tail of the pet must be combed well. The fleas caught in the flea comb must be immediately dropped into hot soapy water to kill them. A vet would be able to recommend the best flea treatment method for a pet.  A safe, effective flea treatment may be chosen from topical, oral, or spot treatments using shampoos, powder, sprays, etc. It must be done regularly, as suggested by the veterinarian.

Preparing the home for flea treatment

The carpeted area and floor must be cleared of all objects like toys or clothes. Any furniture with space underneath may need to be moved away. The aim is to vacuum as much of the carpet surface as possible, with no spaces for fleas to hide.

Take pets and children away

It is best to keep all pets and children away during flea treatment. Aquariums or fish bowls, cages, pet dishes, and bowls must all be covered if not removed. 

Dealing with affected objects

All pet bedding must be destroyed and discarded if there is a heavy flea infestation. However, in case of mild flea infestations, washing the bedding in hot soapy water is effective. Washing must be repeated at least once a week until the infestation is under control. 

Killing Fleas

The entire house must be inspected meticulously. Fleas may be found where pets sleep, in areas away from direct sunlight, and places where people walk about less. Flea dirt may also be spotted. When the floor is vacuumed, the areas where fleas or flea dirt are seen must be cleaned diligently. When vacuuming, it is important to vacuum under the beds and other furniture and pay attention to baseboards, heat vents, carpet edges, corners of rooms, and cracks on the floor. Bedding used by family and pets, favorite napping spots of pets, and carpets must be cleaned very well. Vacuuming removes the flea eggs, larvae, pupae, and flea dirt. 

Vacuuming causes fleas to leave cocoons ahead of time, making them vulnerable to insecticides. It also raises the carpet's nap, which helps the insecticide get deep into the fibers. All floorings must be vacuumed. Furniture, upholstery, curtains, cushions, etc., will have to be vacuumed.

Pest control professionals will usually do a steam cleaning before vacuuming for severe flea infestations. Vacuuming and steam cleaning may need to be repeated for several days to ensure that fleas are killed in various stages of their lifecycle. 

If fleas are present in high numbers outdoors in the yard, removing low-hanging branches and trimming shrubs and hedges for more exposure to sunlight may help. Insecticides and growth regulators may be needed in some cases. A professional pest control service best does this. It is best to take action against fleas on pets in the home and outdoors on the same day. Engaging a pest control company will make eliminating fleas easier. 

While keeping fleas away is an ongoing process, managing flea infestation is best done by pest control experts. Habitat Pest Control is a reliable option for residential and commercial pest control in San Jose and The Bay Area. This pest control company aims to eliminate pests while keeping the environment safe, using integrated pest management methods. Habitat Pest Control uses ECO-exempt products based on botanical activities. For prompt pest control service in the South Bay area on the same day, homeowners or business owners can call 001 (408) 922-9898 or book an appointment online for a free pest control quote.