Fleas are notorious blood-sucking parasites, with pets and other furry animals as their most common victims. Infestations can be difficult to manage due to their ability to reproduce quickly and prey on one host and another. Many cases escalate within only a short period, which requires flea pest control in Indiana and other states to eliminate the vermin.
It’s critical to take a proactive approach to flea prevention before these pests can cause further inconvenience to your pet and family. Below are some tips you can follow to keep these parasites at bay:
Trim Grass and Shrubs in the Yard
Gardens make an inviting spot for rodents, moles, and other animals that potentially carry fleas and ticks. These parasites may then take shelter in humid places like grasses and woodpiles and wait for a prospective host, such as your pet.
It’s essential to trim shrubs and mow the yard regularly before they can even latch onto your cat or dog. Also, check other shady areas in your lawn where they can hide and breed, such as beneath the porches and inside garden sheds.
Vacuum the House Regularly
The benefits of vacuuming go beyond removing dust, pollen, and dirt at home. It can also get rid of parasites that may have been taking shelter in your private space. In fact, vacuuming has 96% and 100% success rates of killing adult and younger fleas, respectively.
Make it a habit to include vacuuming in your regular cleaning routine. Fleas tend to hide within the fabrics of the carpets where they can lay eggs or wait for another host. So, be sure to vacuum them thoroughly and regularly, focusing on areas where your pet frequently rests or lies down. Remember to properly dispose of the vacuum bag to prevent any fleas from escaping.
Check on Your Pet
Pets can pick up various things from the outdoors or other animals, including fleas, that they can carry to your house and cause an infestation later on. Check their bodies for any fleas after a walk or playtime outdoors, particularly their belly, neck, and groin. These areas are where parasites usually latch onto.
If you find fleas on your pet or suspect that they may have been exposed to them, it’s important to take preventative measures to protect them from these pesky parasites. The first step in flea prevention is directly treating your pet, as they are the most susceptible host for fleas. One effective way to protect your pet from fleas is by using a flea collar, which is part of a multi-pronged flea prevention approach. Monthly, topical flea treatments can also be used to kill adult fleas and eggs. To reduce the risk of flea and tick bites, it’s important to prevent your pets from spending time in flea-infested locations, including your yard. If your pets do spend time outdoors, consider scheduling a barrier treatment.
Whether you’ve spotted fleas on your pet, it’s essential to give them regular, thorough baths. They not only reduce the potential risks of a flea infestation but also keep your furry friend feeling refreshed and comfy.
Use a Flea Comb
Fleas feeding on animals often leave feces and eggs on their hosts’ bodies. Their eggs are minuscule and lighter in color, making them more difficult to identify and remove. A flea comb can pick up and trap these from fur due to their tightly-spaced teeth.
Run the comb through your pet’s fur and check for any fleas, black pepper-like specks, or dandruff-looking spots. Start from the head, going toward their body and tail, and following the direction of the fur growth. It’s best to do this outdoors or in a bathtub to prevent fleas or eggs from falling off and landing on your house.
Wash Bedding in Hot Water
Changing and washing your dog or cat’s bedding is just as important as cleaning your own mattresses and sheets. Just like how your covers acquire different microorganisms over time, pet beddings also pick up unwanted objects, such as fallen hair and fleas.
Thoroughly wash pet beddings in hot water, preferably with a temperature of about 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The same should go for other household items your pet likes to snuggle up in, like blankets and pillows. Keep in mind that some materials can only be washed in a certain level of heat, so make sure to check their care labels for the appropriate cleaning procedures.
Seek Help From Professionals
Preventing flea infestation can be difficult, but it is not entirely impossible. Aside from taking a proactive and careful approach, seeking professional help can be beneficial.
Service providers for flea pest control in Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, and Ohio usually perform a comprehensive inspection of the house to identify any potential sources of vermin. If you suspect the presence of fleas in your property, pest management can provide solutions that are safe and effective. It not only ensures that your home is pest-free but also gives you peace of mind knowing your family and pet are safe from potential harm and inconvenience.
