Fleas are small, wingless insects that can jump long distances. The parasites commonly feed on the blood of mammals and birds, but will also bite humans. Unfortunately, the pests are not polite enough to ring your doorbell or even knock before entering your home. Instead, the sneaky parasites get inside by hitching a ride on the backs of your welcomed furry friends. Here are a few other wild ways fleas can get in your home.
Ways Fleas Can Infest Your Home
Once inside your home a flea infestation can spread rapidly because one adult female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day. Fleas can get into your home in a number of ways, including:
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On your pets.
Flea-infested domesticated pets, such as a dog or cat, can easily bring fleas into your home on their fur.
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On wild animals.
A common way that fleas can access your home is by stowing away on wild animals that have managed to invade your property. Invasive wildlife like opossums, rats, squirrels, and raccoons are known carriers of fleas and diseases such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis, and rabies, among others. This type of double infestation is doubly dangerous.
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Through cracks and holes in your foundation or walls.
Fleas can squeeze through very small openings, so it is important to seal up any cracks or holes in your home’s foundation or walls. -
On outside furniture or items.
Fleas can also hide on furniture or other items that have been outside, like towels, rugs, or blankets.
The Dangers of a Flea Infestation
Fleas can pose great risks to you, your children, and your pets. A flea infestation can be life-threatening to small animals like kittens and puppies. Because of their tiny size and ability to jump, fleas are very hard to catch before they bite. Flea bites have been known to spread diseases such as typhus, tularemia, tungiasis, and the bubonic plague, and can transmit “cat scratch disease” to cats who can then spread the disease to their humans.
Fleas can also cause:
- Tapeworms
- Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)
- Hair loss from constant scratching
- Secondary skin sensitivity
- Anemia from excessive blood loss
- Asthmatic reactions to flea feces
If you’re worried that you may have fleas in your home, Critter Control® of Orlando can help. Our experienced technicians are equipped to handle even the most challenging pest infestations.
Flea Removal Experts in Orlando
If you are struggling with a growing flea problem, trust the dedicated team of experienced pest control professionals at Critter Control® of Orlando to handle your infestation quickly and efficiently. Regardless of how fleas entered your home, our expert technicians will isolate your flea infestation, remove all unwanted pests, and apply non-toxic and eco-friendly methods to ensure they do not return.
To schedule an inspection and get a free estimate for our flea removal services, call us today at 407-295-7194.
