The most common types of flea are cat fleas and dog fleas. Human fleas are becoming increasingly rare. They are external parasites, living off the blood of mammals and birds. Fleas are 1.5 to 3.3mm long, agile and usually dark coloured.
Where do fleas come from?
Adult fleas live as parasites on warm-blooded mammals. Eggs are laid in batches of around 20, usually on the host. Therefore, areas where the host rests and sleeps becomes one of the primary habitats for eggs and developing fleas. Cat fleas cause most infestations, and particular attention should be paid to cleaning their bedding. If your cat has fleas, there could be as many as ten times that number in other parts of the house. Wall to wall carpeting, bedding and central heating in a home create ideal conditions in which flea larvae can develop.
Do fleas do any harm?
In the UK, fleas are not often responsible for transmitting disease. However, they are not simply a source of annoyance. Some people and animals suffer allergic reactions to flea saliva resulting in rashes. Flea bites generally result in a slightly-raised swollen itching spot with a single puncture point at the centre. The bites often appear in clusters or lines of two bites, and can remain itchy and inflamed for up to several weeks afterwards. Although not all people are affected by flea bites, they can cause severe irritation. Anti-itch creams such as antihistamines have been shown to be effective for itching.
How do I know if I have fleas in my home?
- if your pet starts scratching more than usual
- if you find bites on your body (a tiny dark red spot surrounded by a reddened area) generally below the knee
- actual sightings of fleas in your home, on yourself or on your pets
Call Masons Pest Control now for free advice on fleas, or to book a qualified pest control technician to deal with your flea problem quickly and safely.
