Fleas are a terrible household pest. Don’t let anyone fool you and have you believe they stick to pets. There is nothing like entering a house that has had an infestation and the starving little things jump and bite everything they can get their mouths on. This includes humans, so you can imagine that a problem with these pests can turn a peaceful living environment into a nightmare.
Indiana is no stranger to these insects. Our beautiful forests and fields are great places for the evil little creatures to hide. We love our pets and take them with us everywhere, so it’s easy for the dog or cat to inadvertently pick up some of these uninvited guests. They are very small, so by the time they have invaded your home, it may be too late. Flea treatment must be started immediately before an infestation spirals out of control.
Facts about Fleas
- Fleas are a flightless bloodsucking parasite
- The flea’s jumping skills are second only to the froghopper
- There are over 2,500 species of fleas worldwide
- Fleas were responsible for the spreading of various plagues, including the Black Death
- Approximately $1.6 billion is spent on flea-related veterinary bills in America alone
Fleas are incredibly bad news. These are one of the worst pests known to humankind because of their association with the spread of disease. They are also habitual problems for animal lovers, causing pet owners no end of grief. If you discover them in your home, it is imperative they are eradicated immediately because they pose a danger to humans and pets alike. It’s important to keep an eye on your pets to make sure they have not picked up any while out and about.
What types of Fleas are in Central Indiana?
There are thousands of varieties of the flea in the world. And at least 30 species have been found on mammals, according to Purdue University. Some types include the cat flea, dog flea, human flea, and rat flea. The rat flea comes in two varieties, Oriental and Northern. The Oriental rat flea was the carrier of the bubonic plague.
The human flea disproves the myth that there is no such thing as flea infestation in humans. They hide in the hairy parts of the body such as armpit or leg hair. Good hygiene will usually keep them away. The cat and dog flea are the types you are most likely to encounter hitching a ride on your furry friends. There are others, like the sand flea or chicken flea, but you may not see them unless you live on a farm or near the water.
Regardless, there are many different kinds of these insects that could become problem pests for your home. It’s important to stay vigilant against these tiny monsters and make sure they do not take up residence in your house or on your property.
What are the health risks to your family and pets?
Unfortunately, these pests are one of the great vectors of disease. They were responsible for carrying plagues throughout history, including the bubonic plague. The Black Death wiped out one third of Europe and other plagues were similarly destructive. It’s unlikely you will see the plague in the modern day, although it hasn’t been entirely eradicated. You are more likely to see other health problems with your family and pets.
The cat flea poses health risks to humans because its bite can cause an allergic reaction. This reaction can be far more severe in pets. They are also hosts for tapeworms, which can infect a child if they swallow a cat flea before the tapeworm matures.
Cat flea larvae and other evidence of their presence can be found in and around pet bedding or other places your pets frequent. They can also be found in moist areas such as underneath bushes or other undergrowth where pets like to sleep on a hot day.
These insects can also survive the winter, although fortunately they do not reproduce during the cold season. They are highly prolific egg layers at other times of the year and reproduce very rapidly. An infestation can occur more quickly than most homeowners would expect, so it is of utmost importance that they keep an eye out for these pests. These insects are not for the faint of heart. Elimination is key for a healthy and happy home.
What kind of damage can fleas do to your property and home?
One of the things these creatures cannot do is cause damage to your home and property. This is secondary to the fact that they can cause untold suffering in other ways. Their bites cause horrible itchy welts and living in torment is not an experience anyone should have.
Therefore, making sure to eradicate any insects that find their way into your home is a good plan. Even though they cannot do damage to the house or property itself, they can do damage to the people and pets living in it. Keeping your yard clear of these pests is also beneficial to children, dogs, cats, and the adults who are the caretakers of the home.
The flea is one of the most ubiquitous pests in the world. It has survived since the Cretaceous period and has been bothering other creatures since its inception. Today, we have several methods of getting rid of these parasites and keeping our homes free and clear of the pests. Since they are carriers of disease and also cause enormous vet bills, the flea is one pest that requires absolute vigilance and immediate eradication.
Any homeowner who sees evidence of these insects is advised to get in touch with a professional immediately to make sure they do not end up with an infestation. These can cause great misery to people all over the world. If you see even one flea, pick up the phone and call the professionals. Flea treatment must be started as soon as possible. This is one pest you need to take very seriously. Your children and pets will thank you.