Experts estimate that over 2,500 species of fleas exist worldwide, with some 300 species found in the United States. Fortunately, there are just 3 types of fleas mainly found in the Bucks County area: cat fleas, dog fleas, and human fleas, with the cat flea being the most commonly encountered among the group.
In addition to the trouble and discomfort they cause, fleas are also capable of carrying numerous diseases by which both animals and humans may contract.
WHAT DO FLEAS LOOK LIKE?
Fleas average about 1/8 of an inch in length, and vary from pale yellow, reddish-brown, to brownish-black in color, depending on type. They have narrow, hairy bodies. Fleas are wingless, and possess 3 pairs of legs, with the hind pair used mainly for jumping.
WHERE DO FLEAS LIVE?
Many without pets are surprised to discover that they have a flea problem. That is because a building can become infested due to the ability of fleas to conceal themselves on a variety of carriers, including humans, cats, dogs, rodents, and assorted wildlife.
Once inside, flea activity can continue throughout the year, as homes and businesses provide the warmth necessary for their survival during cold weather.
Fleas can be found on bedding, furniture, clothing, and carpeting when not feeding. Additionally, it is not uncommon for occupants returning after extended periods to encounter heavy flea activity as a once previously-undetected population was able to increase in number during the absence of animal or human hosts, as fleas may go as long as 6 months without feeding.
WHAT DO FLEAS EAT?
Fleas are parasites that survive on blood they extract from warm-blooded animals. Although any mammal or bird can be used a source of food, fleas prefer cats, dogs, rodents and humans as a host.
DO FLEAS CARRY DISEASE?
Flea bites can be problematic to both humans and animals for several reasons. That's because flea saliva contains chemicals that most humans are allergic to, causing itching. This not only becomes bothersome, but also can lead to bites becoming swollen and painful. It may also produce a more serious situation in dogs and cats known as flea bite allergy.
More importantly are the various medical conditions and diseases that fleas can affect humans and animals with. For instance, fleas are capable of infecting certain pests, mainly cats, with tapeworms, which have also been known to inflect children in rare instances. Additionally, such diseases as murine typhus and the plague can be transmitted by fleas.
HOW TO DETECT FLEAS
• Pests
One of the leading ways used to detect fleas is to examine a pet. Start with a visual inspection by gently pulling back the animal's fur and examining the skin underneath and look for activity of dark moving specks. Also look for small, off-white objects that are oval-shaped. These may be the eggs of fleas. While inspecting, also look for other indications, such as dry skin or loss of air.
Finally, run a flea comb through the pet's fur. Immediately immerse the comb in a bowl of soapy water after several strokes to drown any fleas it may have trapped. Repeat the procedure, combing as much of the pest's body as possible.
• House
One method of inspecting a house for the presence of fleas, is to put on white socks, and walk over surfaces often used by the pet, including carpeting, mats, upholstered furniture, and sleeping areas. Inspect the socks closely for fleas.
HOW TO PREVENT FLEAS
Some of the usual methods used for the prevention of fleas, include:
• Maintaining regularly-mowed lawn • Vacuuming floors, drapes, furniture often • Using commercial treatment/prevention products for pets • Securing premises against rodents
HOW TO TREAT FOR FLEAS
Moderate to severe flea infestations can prove difficult to eradicate. As such, having a Bucks County home or business professionally treated may be the best way to remove fleas.
