Flea Control Measures You May Adapt

Mar 2
08:16

2012

Ma. Theresa Galan

Ma. Theresa Galan

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

For those who keep cats and dogs, it’s quite possible that fleas sometimes find their way into the house. Fleas are small parasites that generally grow no larger than 3 mm long. These small insects feed of the blood of their host, whether that host is a dog, cat or human

mediaimage
Though the adult flea feeds only on blood,Flea Control Measures You May Adapt Articles flea larvae feed on organic matter such as the feces of the mature fleas. For this reason, fleas may continue to grow, even if you or your pet is no longer itching.

Fleas most often lay their eggs on the host itself, meaning that the eggs can easily roll to the ground or become attached to carpet, couches or even bed sheets. Eggs are generally laid in batches of 20 and hatch within two weeks. These tiny flea eggs often find their way into cracks and crevices in your home, which can lead to a large number of fleas in house.

Furthermore, adult fleas can live up to one year without blood, meaning these fleas can still rest in your home without you knowing. Flea control is extremely important for all homeowners, but especially for those that own pets.

Below are some ways to minimize and even eliminate fleas in house:

  • Treat your pet with anti-flea medication or rub their fur with cedar oil, a non-toxic substance that helps to eradicate fleas.
  • Because more than 75% of a flea’s life is not spent on a host, it is imperative to treat the environment. Vacuuming, washing linens in hot water and dusting should be completed on a regular basis.
  • Fog or spray your house with insecticides that kill fleas. This will help kill the eggs and also the adults for a clean sweep of your home.

    Protect your home from fleas that will find their way into your carpet, sheets and laundry. It is imperative that you have your pet checked for fleas and treat them accordingly as to avoid having fleas in house.

  • Fleas are parasites that feed on the blood of animals and humans. These creatures are wingless, but can jump from host to host. Fleas are generally no more than 3.3 millimeters in length and are thus difficult catch and kill. Though it is rare that fleas will live off of human blood, fleas do sometimes attach to humans when they jump off of domesticated dogs and cats as well as other animals such as horses. Because fleas reproduce quickly (eggs are laid in batches of 20 and female fleas lay up to 600 eggs in their 30-90 day life spans), it is often difficult for homeowners to rid fleas from their homes once they become infected. If you suspect your home is infected with fleas, contact a professional exterminator and visit a physician immediately.

    Pulicosis is the skin condition caused by flea bites on humans. People can be diagnosed with pulicosis after only one bite and the condition can range from mild to severe. After the human is bitten by the flea, a small, hard red spot will generally appear. This spot will typically not be itchy at first, though it will be raised. Some people can have extremely negative reactions to flea bites that include ulcers in the throat and mouth, restlessness and soreness of the areolas. If you are experiencing these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention because these symptoms could spread in less than a week and affect the central nervous system. If this occurs, permanent nerve damage may occur.

    However, not all flea bites lead to these serious conditions. If you suspect you have been bitten by a flea or by many fleas, clean the affected area with antiseptic lotion or soap and cold water. Do not scratch inflamed areas, but rather use hydrocortisone cream to ease the discomfort.

    To avoid additional flea bites, you will need to rid your home of these small parasites. Make sure your dog or cat has been properly treated for fleas and make sure that carpets, sofas and other fabric in your home has been thoroughly cleaned. You may also want to look into professional flea removal to ensure your home and your family is safe.

  • For more info of this topic, check the link below:

    flea control, pest control, pest control auckland

    Article "tagged" as:

    Categories: