Fleas are tiny jumping insects that feed off of the blood of mammals and birds. They are wingless and considered external parasites, because they cannot survive for long without a host. There are more than 2,000 different types of fleas, and many of them are specific to certain host animals.
Of course, none of these varieties are welcome in your home. In addition to biting and leaving painful marks on both humans and animals, fleas can spread disease.
Fleas Multiply Quickly
The average female flea lives for 30-90 days and can lay 5,000 or more eggs over her lifetime. A few fleas picked up at the park can quickly multiply into thousands if their growth is not checked. If you notice a flea in your home or on your pet, there are probably more lurking in the shadows. The first step that you want to take is to thoroughly clean all carpeting, linens, and pets. Use a flea shampoo on your pets and be vigilant with the vacuuming and laundering. If you have spotted the fleas early you may still be able to get rid of them on your own.
Fleas Jump and Hide
Unfortunately, these little pests multiply rapidly and hide very well. They can jump three feet high and will hide in your curtains, furniture, pillows, and carpeting, as well as on people and pets. Remember that you can have a flea problem even if you don’t have any pets.
Because fleas are so difficult to get rid of, you should call an exterminator if your first attempts fail. While there are carpet powders and DIY home treatments you can try, the fleas in your home are multiplying with each passing day. Additionally, many DIY treatments are not as safe as the methods used by professional exterminators.
The best defense is early detection and prevention. However, once you know you have fleas, acting quickly can prevent them from becoming a terrible problem. Even exterminators can be challenged by major flea infestations. If you have fleas in your home act fast and find a qualified flea exterminator to take care of the problem for you.
