How To Handle A Flea Infestation: Four Steps To Take
Posted on: 20 September 2016
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A flea infestation can quickly become a nightmare for a homeowner. Knowing what to look for and knowing how to handle the problem help you to get rid of the problem. Fortunately, there are things you can do to tackle your flea infestation before it gets out of hand.
Look For The Signs
Fleas can show themselves in several ways. Hungry fleas can be seen jumping near pets or humans to feed. You may also notice small flecks of black spots, near your pet's bed or toys. These spots are flea feces (otherwise known as flea dirt). Pets may attempt to groom or scratch more vigorously than normal, which would be a sign of the fleas biting. Flea bites on humans typically appear on ankles, arm pits, elbows, and knees.
Clean Your Bedding
Clean the bedding in your home for both you and your pets. You can purchase covers for your mattress and pillows to prevent fleas from making a home inside the bed. You may also want to have your carpets professionally cleaned, as fleas can sometimes live in the carpeting while waiting for a living host to feed off of. Be sure to vacuum the carpets regularly, and empty the vacuum bag or canister immediately in your outside trash can to prevent any fleas you've vacuumed up from re-entering the home.
Contact An Exterminator
You'll need to have your home treated to ensure the flea problem is dealt with appropriately. Have your exterminator inspect the home and identify the type of flea so he or she can choose the proper chemical treatment. You'll want to arrange for your pets and your family to be out of the house during the treatment. In some cases, a flea infestation can be part of a larger problem. For example, if your pets do not go outdoors, they may not be the cause of the infestation. Fleas can live on rodents and small animals, such as mice, rats and squirrels. If you have an infestation of small rodents, they may have brought the fleas into your home. This is another reason why you want the exterminator to do a thorough inspection of the house.
Seek Veterinary Care For Pets
In addition to giving your pets regular baths at the first sign of a flea problem, you may want to consult with your veterinarian. He or she can recommend flea products you can use to prevent further problems and to help treat skin irritated by flea bites.
If you suspect you have fleas, contact an exterminator immediately, and check your pets for signs of bites. By tackling the problem early, you can get your home free from these pesky pests as quickly as possible. Contact a company like Albemarle Termite & Pest Control for more tips.