What Do Fleas Look Like?
Fleas are tiny, wingless parasites that survive by feeding on the blood of mammals and birds. They are reddish-brown, about 1/8 inch long, and have flattened bodies that allow them to move easily through fur or carpet fibers. Their long hind legs enable them to jump great distances, making them highly mobile pests often requiring flea control in Lexington.
Common Flea Species in Lexington, KY
The most common flea species in Lexington is the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), which affects both cats and dogs. Although other species, such as dog fleas and human fleas, are less prevalent, they can still cause problems for pet owners and homeowners who might need flea control.
Signs of a Flea Infestation
- Pets excessively scratching, biting, or licking their fur
- Small, dark flea droppings (flea dirt) in pet fur or bedding
- Red, itchy flea bites on humans, especially around ankles and legs
- Fleas visible in carpets, upholstery, or pet resting areas
- Pale gums in pets, which can indicate anemia from severe infestations requiring flea control in Lexington
How Do Fleas Get Into Homes?
Fleas often enter homes by hitching rides on pets, rodents, or even human clothing. Once inside, they can infest carpets, furniture, and bedding, making eradication challenging. Also, fleas thrive in warm, humid conditions, making Lexington homes especially vulnerable in spring and summer. This situation often necessitates flea control in Lexington homes.
How to Get Rid of Fleas in Lexington, KY
1. Treat Pets
- Use veterinarian-approved flea treatments such as topical solutions, oral medications, or flea collars.
- Regularly bathe and groom pets to remove fleas and eggs.
- Wash pet bedding in hot water frequently.
2. Treat the Home
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and furniture daily to remove flea eggs and larvae.
- Use flea sprays & insect growth regulators (IGRs) to break the flea life cycle. This is crucial for effective flea control in Lexington homes.
- Steam clean carpets and upholstery for deep flea removal.
3. Treat the Yard
- Keep grass trimmed and remove debris where fleas may hide.
- Use yard treatments designed to kill fleas, focusing on shaded, foliage areas where pets rest.
- Deter wildlife, such as rodents, which can bring fleas into your yard and complicate flea control efforts in Lexington.
Preventing Future Flea Infestations
- The best prevention to keep pets flea-free is a vet-recommended monthly flea medication. This also aids in continuous flea control in Lexington households. Frank recommends the team at Richmond Road Vet Clinic!
- Exterior applications to foliage can help reduce the flea population in outdoor areas where pets might pick up fleas.
- Our Top Dog Pest Prevention Service includes flea treatments for indoor infestations, but exterior treatments are not included.
- Keep pets on year-round flea prevention treatments.
- Maintain a clean home environment, regularly washing bedding and vacuuming floors.
- Inspect pets for fleas after outdoor activities to ensure effective flea control in Lexington.
- Work with a professional flea control service in Lexington for ongoing protection.
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FAQ: Common Questions About Fleas in Lexington, KY
Q: Can fleas live on humans?
A: Fleas prefer animal hosts but can bite humans, especially around the ankles.
Q: How long does it take to get rid of fleas?
A: The flea life cycle can last several weeks, so thorough treatment may take 3-4 weeks for full eradication.
Q: Are fleas dangerous to pets and humans?
A: Yes, fleas can transmit diseases, cause allergic reactions, and lead to anemia in severe infestations.
Professional Flea Control in Lexington, KY
Severe flea infestations require expert treatment. At Berner Pest Solutions, our Top Dog Pest Prevention Service offers comprehensive flea control in Lexington, providing targeted treatments to eliminate fleas from your home.
➡ Dealing with fleas? Contact Berner Pest Solutions for a free inspection today! Flea control in Lexington has never been easier!