Fleas
Fleas: Tiny Hoppers You Don’t Want in Your Home or Business
Itchy? Pets scratching? Finding small bites on your ankles? You could be dealing with fleas—those tiny, pesky hoppers that hitch a ride on your pets, shoes, or even clothing, and then make themselves way too comfortable in your home or business. Fleas might be small, but they’re notorious for being stubborn, spreading quickly, and making life a living nightmare for you and your pets. Let’s break down what you need to know, how to stay flea-free, and why Kenney’s Pest Control is here to tackle these unwanted guests once and for all.
Fleas: The Basics and Why They’re Such a Problem
What are Fleas?
Fleas are tiny, wingless parasites that feast on the blood of their hosts, which usually means your pets—or, in their absence, even you. These critters are experts at hiding, jumping, and laying eggs, and they breed like crazy. So even if you think you’ve seen just one or two, trust us—there’s almost always more.
Where Do They Come From?
Fleas often enter your home through pets that have been outside, or even on you if you’ve visited a flea-infested area. They’re especially common in places with lots of animals or greenery, but even city apartments aren’t immune. Once they’re in, they burrow into carpets, upholstery, bedding, and cracks in flooring, turning every cozy spot into their own private flea condo.
Why Are They So Hard to Get Rid Of?
Fleas are resilient. Adult fleas might be the most visible, but their eggs and larvae can be nearly impossible to spot. Plus, they can lie dormant for months, just waiting for the right time (and host) to wake up and start the cycle all over again.
Signs Your Space is Hosting Fleas
Here’s what to look out for to catch these hitchhikers early:
Scratching Pets: If your dog or cat is scratching more than usual, especially around the neck and tail, fleas could be the reason. Check for tiny black “pepper-like” specks—those are flea droppings.
Small Red Bites: Flea bites are small, itchy red bumps, often clustered around the ankles, legs, or waist. Unlike mosquito bites, flea bites don’t swell much, but they sure itch!
Mysterious Dirt: Ever notice small black specks on your pet’s bed, your carpets, or even on your clothes? This could be “flea dirt”—dried blood and excrement left behind by adult fleas. Gross, but a good indicator you’ve got fleas.
Spotting Fleas Themselves: If you see a tiny, dark-colored insect suddenly hopping on or off your pet, carpet, or sofa, it’s likely a flea.
Tips to Keep Fleas Away (For Good!)
So, how do you protect yourself, your pets, and your property from these uninvited guests? Fleas are persistent, but a good prevention plan will go a long way.
1. Keep Your Pets Protected
Pets are a flea’s dream mode of transportation, so take steps to make them less appealing targets.
Use Flea Prevention Treatments: Regular flea treatments, whether in the form of pills, topical ointments, or collars, are a must. Consult your vet for the best option based on your pet’s lifestyle and health.
Check Pets Regularly: After your pets go outside, especially in warmer months, do a quick flea check. Look for fleas around the neck, underbelly, and tail—these are their favorite hangouts.
Groom and Bathe Pets Often: Regular grooming and baths with a flea comb or flea shampoo help wash away any stowaways before they can take hold.
2. Vacuum (A Lot)
Fleas don’t just hang out on pets—they love carpets, upholstery, and bedding too.
Vacuum Frequently: Vacuum floors, carpets, rugs, and furniture at least twice a week, focusing on pet “hot spots” where they like to rest. This not only removes adult fleas but also gets rid of eggs and larvae.
Empty the Bag: If your vacuum uses a bag, empty it outside immediately. Fleas can crawl out of a vacuum and find their way back into your home.
Steam Clean Regularly: A steam clean here and there will kill any remaining flea eggs and larvae in carpets and furniture. Fleas hate the heat!
3. Wash Bedding and Fabrics
Fleas settle in soft fabrics, so washing your pet’s bedding (and even your own) is essential.
Launder Bedding Weekly: Use hot water to wash pet bedding, blankets, and any fabric items your pet lies on regularly. High heat will kill both fleas and eggs.
Dry on High Heat: Throw items in the dryer on high heat to ensure any remaining fleas or eggs are completely destroyed.
4. Treat Your Yard (Especially if You Have Pets)
If fleas are a problem inside, they’re probably lurking around your yard, too. Give them the boot from the outside in!
Keep Grass Short: Fleas love long grass and shady spots, so keeping your lawn trimmed removes hiding places.
Use Pet-Safe Yard Treatments: There are flea treatments for lawns that repel fleas and other pests—just make sure it’s safe for your pets!
Discourage Wild Animals: Wild animals can carry fleas into your yard, so try to discourage their visits by securing trash and removing pet food.
When Fleas Just Won’t Leave… We’re Here to Help
If fleas have taken over despite your best efforts, it’s time to call in the pros. Fleas are masters of survival, and it only takes one missed egg to start the cycle all over again. At Kenney’s Pest Control, we’ve got the tools, expertise, and know-how to root out these pests at every life stage—from the tiniest egg to the most stubborn adult.
We’ll assess every corner of your home or business, giving fleas nowhere to hide. With our treatments and follow-up visits, we’ll make sure fleas are gone for good—so you can stop scratching, sleep soundly, and get back to living flea-free.
Flea-Free is the Way to Be!
No one wants fleas setting up camp in their home or business, but with the right approach, you can keep them out for good. Stick to a prevention routine, keep a close eye on your pets, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Kenney’s Pest Control if you need some backup. Let’s say goodbye to fleas—and hello to a home free of all things itchy and bitey. 🐾