When most of us think of fleas, it is in the context of how they can affect our pets. However, when they bury into your cat’s or dog’s fur, it is only a matter of time before they breed and infest other areas of your house. Here is what you should know about this commonly overlooked pest control problem.

Identifying the Presence of Fleas

Unsurprisingly, your pets will likely be the first to let you in on the secret. Those infested will have a tendency to scratch themselves a lot. Move the fur to check the skin behind their ears and neck, as well as under the “armpits.” These warm areas tend to attract the most pests. Look for tiny, moving black specks, as well as scabs from bites. Combing your pet’s fur with a fine-tooth comb can also reveal flea feces.

If a pet with fleas has been inside the house, then there is a good chance that the fleas have spread to other areas, such as the pet’s bedding or your carpets. You will need to closely inspect these areas to spot the bugs.

Pest Control Solutions

If left unchecked, fleas will lay eggs, resulting in pupae and larvae spreading throughout the home. Because fleas lay so many eggs, it is essential that you disrupt their lifecycle as soon as possible. In addition to taking your pet to the veterinarian for an insecticidal treatment, you must clean your home.

Vacuum the affected areas and steam clean any affected carpeting. Washing pet bedding and any infected blankets can also help kill the fleas. However, to fully eliminate the infestation, you will likely need to treat the house with an insect growth regulator to kill off any eggs or larvae. These chemicals are typically applied by a pest control professional via a spray or fumigation.

Need help getting rid of fleas? Rely on Extermination Services in Port Orchard, WA. Serving Kitsap County since 1991, their licensed pest control technicians offer a 90-day warranty on pests and a 60-day warranty on rodents so you can have confidence in their work. To learn more about how they can help you, visit them online. Call (360) 895-1890 to set an appointment.