A Complete Guide to Fleas in South Carolina
Everybody enjoys being outdoors with their pets, but fleas thrive in our mild South Carolina climate. It's natural to see a dog scratch behind his ears or a cat licking at a paw, but a few fleas can explode into an infestation in less than a week. Preventive treatments can head off the problem, but once they've established themselves, fleas pose a serious health hazard to pets and the people that love them. These tiny insects move from four-legged carriers to the rest of the family, and they spread through the entire house, even out into the yards.
What Do Fleas Look Like?
Fleas are tiny, wingless insects known for their jumping ability and bites. Typically measuring about 1/8 inch long, these dark brown or reddish-brown parasites have flattened bodies, making it easy for them to navigate through fur or hair. Fleas have six long legs, with their hind legs being particularly powerful for jumping great distances relative to their size. Under close inspection, you might notice their thin, almost translucent exoskeletons and tiny bristles covering their bodies, which help them latch onto their hosts. Despite their small size, fleas are a big nuisance, capable of causing discomfort and potential health issues for both pets and humans.
How To Identify Fleas on Your Pets?
Check family pets on a regular basis, and pay attention to any excess scratching. Fleas are usually found on a dog's hind quarters and are visible when the coat hairs are separated; on cats, the insects bite around the head and neck area. While it's easy to spot fleas on pets, it's much harder to see the tiny eggs and larvae that make up the bulk of an infestation. All three stages of the life cycle will thrive on pets, in homes and eventually on the family. Children playing on carpeted floors or the backyard grass are perfect targets for fleas.
How To Prevent Fleas?
The best way to handle a flea infestation is to stop it from ever happening. Special collars help and monthly medications are available over the counter or from the vet's office. Flea shampoos work well, although they aren't recommended for cats. Cleaning the house is important, including linens, beds, and any area where pets love to nap. There are also bug bombs on the market formulated for fleas, but they are toxic and require an empty house for eight hours to get the job done.
How To Get Rid Of Fleas?
Getting rid of fleas requires a thorough approach. Start by treating your pets with veterinarian-recommended flea treatments, such as topical solutions, oral medications, or flea collars. Simultaneously, wash all pet bedding, and vacuum your home extensively, paying close attention to carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture where fleas and their eggs may hide. Dispose of vacuum bags or empty canisters outside immediately to prevent re-infestation. Use flea sprays or foggers in your home, focusing on areas your pets frequent. Consider treating your yard with outdoor flea control products to eliminate fleas from all potential habitats. For persistent infestations, professional pest control services can provide comprehensive solutions to ensure your home is flea-free. Regular maintenance and prevention are key to keeping these tiny pests at bay.
Contact Professional Flea Exterminators
When preventive measures aren't enough, it's a good idea to call in the professional exterminators. Titan Termite & Pest Control offers flea control throughout South Carolina in the areas surrounding Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville. Titan Termite & Pest Control conducts inspections and consultations so that a family understands the extent of the problem. Often, the DIY approach is good enough, but when it isn't, our services guarantee a safe and effective solution. We know which applications are best for the home, and we treat tricky areas like duct work and carpeting. Even commercial buildings and yard areas can become infested with fleas, and we know how to handle the big jobs. Contact us today, and let us solve the problem before it gets any worse.