Fleas

The Truth About Fleas

Just about every pet owner in the world has probably had thoughts about fleas. Whether or not you’ve ever battled an infestation or not is an entirely different story, but you at least know there is a high likelihood of infestation. Pets and wildlife are always vulnerable to fleas. That being said, you might be surprised to learn that you are also susceptible to fleas and flea infestations. That’s right! While just considered a nuisance by most Syracuse residents, the flea is much more. They transmit typhus and plague by biting the host and passing along the disease via blood. 

Common Fleas In Syracuse

Fleas are one of the most interesting insects in the world. While the species has been around for centuries, people are still discovering new and exciting information about them every day. Information that helps with elimination. One of the things that were recently discovered was, Cat Fleas are the most common in Syracuse. While there are thousands of different species spread throughout the world, it is the Cat Flea that most Syracuse residents will battle. Known by its scientific name, Ctenocephalides Faelis, the adult can grow to be as big as 1/8 inch. They are long and flattened, which affords them the ability to easily slip through the fur of animals. It also affords them the ability to easily slip through fingers when grabbed.

This is just one of the many things that make them more difficult than most to eliminate. Give their name, a lot of people think this species only invades or infects cats. This is not the case at all. These insects can be found on anything from the dog to the opossum, raccoon, skunk, fox, and human.

Know The Flea Bite

You probably don’t need anyone telling you that the flea bite can be troubling. This is especially true in large infestations. When there are a large number of insects present multiple bites over and over again have led to death. In the less severe cases, bites have led to hair loss from constant scratching. This is usually because of an allergic reaction to the protein in the flea’s saliva. Another downside to the flea is that it is a host for tapeworms.

Properly Preventing Flea Infestations

As with any insect, prevention is always the best measure. Prevention not only saves you time and money, but it just makes the entire situation all that much easier. Of course, prevention isn’t just something that’ll come overnight. It’ll take effort and work on your part. If you are incapable or just prefer not to apply prevention methods, we are available. We’ll not only eliminate your pest problem, but we’ll do whatever necessary for prevention. Just give us a call, and we’ll get an assessor out to the property. That being said, here are some things you’ll want to consider with flea prevention:

• Think twice about feeding stray animals and wildlife
• Think twice about getting a pet if you aren’t going to practice flea prevention tactics
• You need to apply flea ointment and salve to pets on a regular basis
• Mow and maintain your lawn (3inches is acceptable)
• Consider fencing or barricade materials around your porches
• Wash your pets bedding and home regularly

Unfortunately, it is entirely possible to eliminate your chances of an infestation. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should do anything. There is actually a lot you can do and it’ll go a long way. You’d be surprised how much a little can do. Whatever the situation, we are here to help. Whether you have questions, concerns, or want to speak with someone about pest management, we are here. All you have to do is give our Syracuse offices a ring.

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