Flea Identification and Flea Prevention In Coastal Carolina

What Are Fleas?

About the size of a speck of dirt, fleas are tiny parasites that feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals. They prefer to feed on animals, but in the case of a large infestation, or if we are all that are available, they also feed on human blood. While mainly associated with pet owners, fleas are pests that can find their way onto any property and into any home or business, whether pets are present or not. Fleas are dark reddish-brown insects that have a hard body and are flattened from side to side. Adult fleas have six legs and are wingless. With their powerful hind legs, they can jump great heights helping them to get onto their hosts or out of the way of danger. If you are facing pest issues, then you should contact us for Wilmington pest control services!

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Are Fleas Dangerous?

Fleas are dangerous and unwanted pests. Their bites are itchy and uncomfortable, and constant scratching may lead to secondary infections. These insects are capable of spreading some pathogens that cause disease, but in the U.S., the bigger risk associated with fleas is the spread of tapeworm to both people and our pets. Another concern with fleas is that heavily infested pets and other animals may develop anemia, which can be fatal.

Why Do I have A Flea Problem?

Fleas are introduced onto properties by rodents and other wild animals. Once on a property, their seven-inch vertical jump allows them to jump onto us or our pets. Fleas also get into our homes and businesses on the backs of rodents.

Fleas are prolific breeders and can complete their life-cycle indoors. Just a couple of fleas hitchhiking their way into your North Carolina home or business can lead to a frustrating, large-scale infestation. A single female may lay up to 500 eggs in her lifetime!

Where Will I Find Fleas?

Fleas are in one of two places: on the back of an animal host, or in a dark, damp area lying in wait for something or someone to pass by. Outside, fleas, their larvae, and eggs live in tall grass, under leaves, and in the sandy dirt under decks and shrubbery. Inside, these parasitic pests hide in rugs, behind baseboards, in upholstered furniture, blankets, and bedding. 

How Do I Get Rid Of Fleas?

Eliminate fleas from your home or business with the help of the professionals at Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators. Trying to tackle pest problems on your own is difficult, time-consuming, and ineffective.

For over two decades, Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators has solved pest problems for home and business owners throughout Pender, Brunswick, and New Hanover counties in North Carolina. Our qualified and dedicated staff solve local pest problems using the latest products, techniques, and pest control services. To start maintaining a fleas-free home or business, reach out to Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators today!

How Can I Prevent Fleas In The Future?

Keep fleas out of your Wilmington home with the help of Bug-N-A-Rug Exterminators and the following flea prevention tips.

• After walks and playtime outside, inspect yourself and your pets for fleas before coming back inside.

• Bathe your pets using a flea-control shampoo.

• Under the guidance of a veterinarian, place pets on a year-round flea control program.

• Regularly vacuum your house, especially in areas where pets spend most of their time.

• Keep the grass on your property cut short.

• Remove overgrown grass or vegetation from around your foundation.

• Remove bird and animal feeders from your property and keep locking lids on trash cans to help keep foraging animals off of your property.

• Seal up spaces in your home's exterior to keep rodents and other wild animals out.