Are You Ready To Prevent And Get Rid Of Fleas?

Fleas tend to be more of a problem during the warm, humid months of the year, but there are measures you can take to prevent and get rid of flea infestations. Learn how to both prevent fleas and how to get rid of fleas.

Did you know that only about 10% of adult fleas actually end up on your pet? All the rest are in your carpet, pillows, mattresses and other living areas.

How To Prevent And Get Rid Of Fleas

Why Fleas Are More Than A Nuisance

Fleas are more than just an itchy annoyance to your pet. In reality, they can pose serious health risks. Fleas multiply quickly and their saliva can cause anemia, dermatitis and can transfer tapeworms.

Many flea eggs and larvae do not live on your pet but are deposited around your house and in your backyard. This is why flea infestations can be such a huge problem, even after your pet is treated for fleas.

How To Prevent Fleas

To prevent fleas on your pet and in your house:

Pay attention to your pet’s grooming behaviors to see if you notice excessive scratching, licking and nibbling.
Check your pets for fleas regularly.
Avoid walking your pet through tall grasses or low brushy vegetation along trails or along the edge of the woods.
Bathe pets after walks or after being in contact with other animals.
Use flea medication recommended by your pet’s veterinarian. There are many options including: flea collars, shampoos, sprays, powders and dips.
Wash your pet’s bedding, collars and toys regularly.
Wash your bedding and vacuum your carpets and furniture frequently.

How To Get Rid Of Fleas On Your Pet

You need to get rid of the fleas on your pet or the flea infestation in your house will continue. The adult fleas living on your pet will continue to procreate if they aren’t exterminated. There are special shampoos and powders you can purchase for cats and dogs that are specifically designed to kill fleas. Talk to your pet’s veterinarian and/or visit your local pet store for flea killing shampoos and powders.

How To Get Rid Of Fleas In Your House

If you suspect you have a flea infestation, contact a licensed pest control company immediately to treat the problem before it worsens. Fleas multiply very quickly and need to be controlled. If you are attempting to treat the problem on your own with insecticides or flea bombs, make sure you purchase a product with an IGR, or insect growth regulator, which prevents larvae from becoming adult fleas.

In addition you will need to:

Vacuum the house daily for at least two weeks. Make sure to move couches, beds, and furniture to vacuum thoroughly. (Note: Do not empty your vacuum indoors.)
Wash all clothing, bedding and removable furniture covers weekly.
Cut the grass in your backyard to allow sunlight. If there are dark, moist areas of your backyard, you can spread cedar wood chips or Eucalyptus leaves over those areas, which are all natural flee deterrents.
If your pet has been in your car recently, make sure to vacuum and clean your car thoroughly.

PESTOUT is pest control company that safely treats flea infestations in homes across Hampton Roads Virginia.
Call to schedule service to get rid of fleas at (757) 856-6557