How To Properly Handle A Flea Infestation In Los Angeles County

Fleas are undesirable, parasitic pests that feed on the blood of warm-blooded creatures. Measuring only 1/8 of an inch long, spotting them with the naked eye is often difficult. In this region, the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) commonly feeds on dogs and cats, making it a public health concern for pet owners. 

Fleas are creatures that progress through four distinct phases of development, starting as an egg, hatching into larvae, and maturing into pupae before finally reaching adulthood. Adult fleas will typically die if they remain without a blood meal for a few days. After locating a host, cat fleas usually remain there, and pet owners often notice the presence of pellet-like fecal material, which flea larvae will consume. 

Have you detected the presence of fleas in your home? Completely eliminating flea infestations proves challenging, as these pests breed rapidly; thus, consulting with a local pest control professional is typically the best course of action. If you need Los Angeles County pest control, don't trust your home's well-being to just anyone: you need a company that employs trained professionals that understand how to remove fleas from homes and can effectively instruct you in strategies regarding how to prevent fleas from returning. HomeShield Pest Control is your premier source for flea control in Los Angeles County, and we've written this article to give you a deeper understanding of how fleas get into homes, the threat they pose, and how we can put a stop to them.

There Are Many Ways Fleas Can Infest Your Home

Females begin generating eggs within two days of their initial blood meal and often lay more than 20 each day, meaning that flea infestations may quickly escalate to unmanageable levels. The eggs are usually deposited within the fur of cats, dogs, or other animals; however, they may fall from the fur as the pet moves throughout a home. Often, homeowners will notice that an infested pet will begin scratching incessantly as fleas bite. 

Fleas generally prefer animals rather than human hosts but will travel on humans. As wingless creatures, fleas often rest in tall areas of grass or other vegetation and rely on their strong legs to propel them toward a passing host. Are you wondering how to treat fleas? Professional pest control is the best choice.

Fleas Can Be Hazardous To The Health Of People And Pets

Are flea bites dangerous to human health? In recent years, reports from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health indicated that small outbreaks of flea-borne typhus occurred. Flea-borne typhus is also referred to as murine or endemic typhus. Fortunately, no evidence suggested the possibility of spread via person-to-person transmission. 

The cat flea is also a known cause of irritated skin and allergic dermatitis among humans and acts as a host of tapeworm that plagues domestic animals. 

Flea bites on the skin usually appear in small groups or clusters. Fleas often bite humans around the ankles, legs, waist, or groin areas of the body. 

What Is Attracting Fleas To My House?

As tiny pests, fleas in Los Angeles County may enter a home's interior through small entry points, including cracks or crevices on the exterior and damaged windows; however, the majority of fleas enter homes on cats, dogs, humans, or second-hand furniture items. 

Dog or cat owners should recognize that their pets are the primary thing attracting fleas to their properties, especially whenever they venture outside. Responsible pet owners diligently ensure their pets remain on a preventative type of year-round flea and tick treatment, preferably according to the instructions of a licensed veterinarian. 

Pet beds are another potential hotspot for flea activity, so regularly wash blankets and other bedding materials. Between washings, a vacuum helps capture flea eggs, larvae, pupae, and excrement. 

The Best Way To Get Rid Of Fleas In Your Home

Are you noticing indications of the presence of fleas in your home? Taking prompt action by scheduling a professional inspection is critical to curtail a potentially overwhelming infestation. The local experts with HomeShield Pest Control know how to remove fleas from homes and ways how to keep fleas away. Contact our office today for more information.