Fleas are the most common biting insect we come across. Often our clients will be reports of bites, which can become itchy and leave red marks on the skin. Typically we see fleas in properties with dogs or cats, but this is not always the case. Fleas themselves are very hard to spot, but you may see them briefly on your skin before they quickly hope away. You may also know your bets scratching and grooming more intensely than normal, which could indicate a flea problem.
Flea infestations can be a challenging pest to battle on your own. It is vital to regularly apply flea treatment to your pets as advised by your vet. A treatment to your home is often also needs to fully clear the problem. This combined approach can give the best chance of fully clearing the infestation.
Although there are many species of flea, the two we typically see are;
1. Dog Flea (Ctenocephalides canis) – as they name suggests, they have a particular preference for domestic dogs, although they can also live on cats and other mammals. They can carry and spread the species of tapeworm, Dipylidium caninum. So should not be left unchecked.
2. Cat Rat (Ctenocephalides felis) – you’ve guessed its, have a preferred host of the domestic cat. This is the most common species found, and is also often found on dogs
Both species can do and do bite humans, and are responsible for transmitting a range of diseases to both people and animals. Human fleas (Pulex irritans), they are not especially common in the UK.
There are a few signs that can indicated there is a flea problem in your property Here are some things to watch out for;
If you suspect you have a flea issue at your home or business, please get in touch and speak to a pest pest professional. Correctly identifying the problem early can save on time and costs.
Flea infestations are often down to bad luck, rather than caused by anyone’s faults or failures. There are a few steps you can take to help prevent a flea problem taking hold.
As mentioned above, you will want to treat any pets in the house, as advised your vet. You will also want to increase the frequency of your hoovering to remove as many fleas, larvae and eggs as you can. Washing pet bedding is also vital to help reduce the population as much as possible.
The next step would be to consider treating your home, which is where we can help. Flea treatments in a property often require a professional residual insecticide applied to the flooring through the property. Our team will produce a bespoke treatment plan to your needs, one that is both effective and also safe for your, your family, and pets within the property.
A stream treatment may also be recommended for areas in which a chemical treatment cannot be applied, such as pet bedding or soft furnishings.
For North Yorkshire including York and Harrogate, call Jack on 07375 554 760
For West Yorkshire including Leeds, Bradford & Huddersfield, call Neil on 0113 318 2143
For Cambridgeshire including Bedfordshire & Northamptonshire, call Sean on 01954 581 032.
Our experienced team have the knowledge and skill to work both effectively and safely.
Safe – Humane – Effective
Why choose The Pest Company? We have many years of experience in the pest control industry, with all our work backed by The Pest Company Guarantee.
As members of The British Pest Control Association we strive to deliver the highest standards of service, and comply with all industry codes of best practice.
The Pest Company is a fully accredited member of the British Pest Control Association (BPCA). Meaning we are fully insured and fully qualified to the industry-recognised RSPH Level 2 standard.