Fleas are tiny, annoying insects that can quickly become a big problem in your home. But where do they come from? Why do you have fleas in your house? One of the biggest factors is wildlife. Here’s what you need to know.
Unwitting Carriers of Fleas
Fleas are hitchhikers and rely on host animals to transport them from one location to another. The most common carriers of fleas are wild animals such as rats, squirrels, raccoons, and opossums. These animals often carry fleas on their fur and skin and can unknowingly transport them into your yard and even your home. If you live near wooded or rural areas, there’s a higher chance of these animals carrying fleas into your living space.
Wildlife Connection
Wildlife plays a significant role in flea infestations. When wild animals carrying fleas roam around your yard, they can leave behind flea eggs and larvae in their path. As these eggs hatch, the fleas will look for new hosts to feed on, including your pets or even you. If these animals find a way into your home, they can bring fleas inside with them. Additionally, if you have any openings in your home’s exterior, such as cracks, holes, or gaps, wildlife can easily enter your home, bringing fleas with them.
How Fleas Infest Homes
Fleas can enter your home in a variety of ways, such as through an open window, door, or ventilation system. They can also be brought inside on your pets or on your clothing. Once inside, fleas can quickly multiply and infest your home. Fleas are prolific breeders, with females capable of laying up to 50 eggs per day. These eggs can hatch in as little as two days, leading to a full-blown infestation in a matter of weeks.
Signs of a Flea Infestation
There are a few tell-tale signs of a flea infestation in your home.
- You or your pets are experiencing itchiness and discomfort
- Small bites or red bumps on the skin
- Flea dirt (small black dots) on your pet’s fur or in your home’s carpets and furniture
- The presence of fleas themselves on your pet’s fur or in your home’s carpets and furniture
- Unusual activity from your pets, such as excessive scratching or restlessness
- The sight of fleas jumping on your pets or furniture
If you suspect that you have a flea infestation in your home, it’s important to act quickly to prevent the problem from getting worse.
Prevention Tips
To prevent flea infestations, it’s important to take a few preventative measures. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Keep your pets groomed and treat them regularly with flea prevention medication.
- Vacuum your home regularly, paying special attention to areas where your pets spend time.
- Wash your pet’s bedding and your own bedding in hot water on a regular basis.
- Seal up any potential entry points for wildlife around your home.
Stop the Flea Invasion with Terminix!
If you’re dealing with a flea infestation in your home, it’s important to take action quickly. Fleas can reproduce rapidly and become a major problem in a short amount of time. Terminix offers free home pest inspections to help identify the source of your flea problem and recommend a treatment plan.
Don’t let fleas take over your home and yard – call Terminix today!