Flea bites can be annoying, itchy, and can even become infected if they are scratched and left untreated. Removing a flea infestation from your home can be difficult, but with persistence and care, it can be done. Getting rid of fleas is a multi-step process that will need to be carried out over weeks in order to destroy fleas at every life cycle and end the infestation once and for all.
Flea Bites and Other Signs
Flea bites are itchy, often reddish, raised bumps. The reaction to the bite depends upon the sensitivity of the person bitten. Some people will barely notice they’ve been bitten, while others will develop red, itchy, raised bumps that may persist for days or even weeks. If you have pets, you will need to treat them and their bedding and toys as well as your home and yard. Fleas are most commonly found when people begin suffering bites or notice their pets scratching, but you may see live insects on your legs or in your pet’s fur.
What do Fleas Look Like?
Fleas are extremely small and may be difficult to spot. The most distinctive feature is their ability to jump great distances in comparison to their diminutive size. They are usually black or dark brown in color and may be seen crawling in a pet’s fur or on a human’s skin. They will not remain on humans, finding it difficult to find hiding places. In fact, only 5% of the total flea population in your home will be found on your pet at any given time. Fleas like dark places and will seek out baseboards and carpets, as well as crevices in pet beds and other materials, for their hiding places.
Treatment
Flea treatment should be applied to pets as directed, to prevent re-infestation. Talk to your vet about options for the best way to treat your pets. In the home, it is necessary to remove as many hiding places as possible. Wash your pet’s bedding and toys in hot water to kill any fleas, larvae, and eggs. Use a spray, bomb, or powder treatment, and vacuum the rooms frequently, throwing away the bag each time to remove larvae and eggs from your home. Don’t forget the lawn. Fleas make their way inside by hitching rides on pets and people on their way indoors. A professional exterminator can help you decide which treatments will be the safest and most effective for your family.
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