Fleas are a common and parasitic pest that negatively affect pets, people, and homes. They can live in carpet and furniture even when you’ve treated household animals. Therefore, if you know of an infestation, call for pest removal right away.

How to Know if Your Pet Has Fleas

An infestation usually starts with a pet and then spreads to carpets and furniture. Signs that an animal has fleas are constant itching, biting, or chewing at their skin and paws, “hot” spots of inflamed, raw skin, and visible insects underneath their fur. Fleas also leave a residue of fine, black sediment that is visible to the eye.

Negative Effects of Fleas on People & Pets

Besides the irritation to your pet’s skin, fleas carry diseases as they bite and feed on blood. An extreme example is Bubonic plague; although this disease is very rare today, other flea-transmitted diseases can include typhus, spotted fever, and cat scratch fever. Both humans and animals can be affected by the bites, although it is uncommon for humans to become ill. The bites are itchy on both animals and people and can become infected. If an animal is severely affected, anemia can result.

Effects on the Home

Infestations can be hard to eradicate since fleas have a quick breeding cycle. Professional pest removal is the best solution for an infestation that has spread through the house. An exterminator can also treat your yard for fleas, which will help keep pets from becoming re-infested.

Treatment Options

A veterinarian can recommend safe and effective flea treatment for pets. This may include special shampoos, flea powder or collars, or medications. If family members are affected by bites, use calamine lotion, anti-itch creams, or tea tree or lavender essential oil.

For the home, you will need to vacuum carpets often after applying a flea powder (then throw the vacuum bag away), wash pet bedding and stuffed toys frequently, and any other items where you’ve seen the fleas. Professional pest removal is the most effective way to treat a home that has these pests.

Prevention

The best way to prevent fleas in the home is to regularly treat your pet. The benefits of most medicated products far outweigh side effects. Additionally, treat outdoor areas where your pet likes to relax as shady spots are perfect for fleas.
 

Don’t ignore a flea infestation in your animals or home, especially as the weather warms. The pest removal experts at All Service can help you rid your home of fleas, roaches, termites, rodents, scorpions, and a host of other pests. Their wide service area includes New Braunfels, San Marcos, and the surrounding areas of Texas. Take advantage of customer discounts, including 10% off termite treatment, by visiting their website or call (830) 626-2847 to schedule service.