Fleas
Fleas
Fleas are external parasites that commonly plague both cats and dogs. They are vampiric, meaning they feed on blood, and can eat up to 15 times their body weight in blood each day.
Fleas can jump about 6 inches vertically which means they can easily jump onto your cat or dog as it walks through the outdoors. Once they have hitched a ride on your pet they begin feeding within minutes and will quickly begin mating and laying eggs. This usually occurs within the first 24 hours and they lay about 40 to 50 eggs a day.
Fleas on your pet or flea bites around one’s ankles are both hallmark indications of flea presence in your home. Sanitation is critical in areas where the animal sleeps or rests. Indoors, carpet should be vacuumed, and bedding should be washed. Outdoors, dog houses, bedding, and other materials should be washed and placed in the sun.
It is important to note that when flea larvae transform into pupae, they usually remain inside their cocoon for 1 to 4 weeks although they can last longer. The cocoon is incredibly durable and is completely resistant to insecticides which makes the treatment of fleas very difficult. Their high breeding rate also means that infestations can grow exponentially and quickly get out of hand.
If your flea infestation has gotten out of control it is important to get in a qualified pest control company to ensure these pesky bloodsuckers are removed from your pet and your home. Call Hannan Environmental Services today to keep your home free of fleas.
