Fleas

Fleas feed on blood as their sole source of food. Cats, dogs, mice, rats, squirrels, foxes, skunks, raccoons, and many other wild animals are their favorite hosts. Fleas prefer to feed on animals, but in the case of a large infestation or if we are all that is available, they will also feed on the blood of people.

Are fleas dangerous?

Fleas are not necessarily dangerous, and the health risks that they pose to people living in the United States are minimal. But, they are most definitely unwanted pests. Their bites are very itchy, and the constant scratching may lead to the development of a secondary infection. In the case of a large infestation, fleas and their excrement may exacerbate respiratory problems and allergies.

Pets that are heavily infested with fleas may develop a severe skin reaction or even anemia. Another problem associated with fleas is that they can spread parasitic tapeworms to both people and animals.

Why do I have a flea problem?

A flea spends most of its life on the back of their animal host. Females lay their eggs in the fur of the animal they are living on, and as the animals walk, the eggs drop off onto the ground. Wild animals or visiting pets can introduce fleas onto your property, and if you or your pets come into contact with fleas when spending time in your yard, you could introduce these tiny biting pests into your home.

In addition to people or animals, fleas can get inside on objects like used rugs or upholstered furniture.

Where will I find fleas?

In Louisiana, fleas are a problem year-round, but as in most areas, they are most problematic when the weather is warmest during the spring and summer months.

In our yards, fleas tend to congregate in areas of shade and damp or sandy soil. They group together in places where pets or wild animals spend most of their time. Areas under decks, shrubs, woodpiles, leaf piles, or in tall grass are where fleas most often wait for a host to come by that they can jump onto and begin feeding on.

Fleas can complete their life cycle indoors. They are quick breeders, and a few getting into your home can lead to a large-scale infestation that will seem to develop in the blink of an eye!

How do I get rid of fleas?

Eliminate fleas and other pests from your Louisiana residential or commercial property with the help of River City Termite & Pest Control. We offer personalized flea control services you can count on to eliminate problems with pests and keep them from returning.

Get rid of fleas from your property by reaching out to River City Termite & Pest Control. We are happy to work with you to ensure that your Baton Rouge area home or business is kept free of fleas. To learn more about our home pest control or commercial pest control services, give us a call today!

How can I prevent fleas in the future?

Help keep fleas out of your home with the help of the following, easy-to-implement flea prevention tips:

• If you own pets, one of the best things you can do to prevent problems with fleas is to make sure they are on a year-round flea control program under the guidance of their veterinarian.
• Remove food sources like bird feeders and open trash cans that could attract hungry wild animals to your yard.
• Trim back grass, weeds, and dense shrubbery from the foundation of your home.
• Remove leaf piles, brush piles, and excess woodpiles that fleas can hide under on your property.
• Keep the grass cut short.
• Inspect your pets and yourself for fleas before coming indoors.
• Vacuum your home regularly, especially the areas where pets spend most of their time.