CITY & METRO
PEST MANAGEMENT WA
FLEAS
Fleas are a type of wingless
parasite found worldwide. They feed off the blood of humans and animals such as
dogs and cats. Since fleas use a wide range of hosts, diseases can be
transferred from one host to another.
They pierce the skin, inject an anti-coagulant chemical into the host to prevent
blood clotting and suck out the blood some passing straight through their rectum
in order to lay their eggs.
Symptoms of a flea bite
The bite of a flea has certain features:
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It is extremely itchy
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A red, swollen wheal develops anywhere up to half an hour
after the bite
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After a day or so, the wheal (lump) may develop into a
blister or small wound
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The legs and feet are often targeted
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Secondary infections caused by scratching are common
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Some people may be very sensitive to bites
Blood feeding
Adult fleas can survive for some months without feeding. The flea uses its
saw-like mandibles (jaws) to cut through skin, usually on accessible parts
of the body such as the legs or feet. Flea saliva contains anticoagulants to
encourage the blood to keep flowing. Female fleas are prompted to lay their
eggs after feeding. The eggs are light coloured and oval-shaped. The larvae
cocoon themselves within weeks of hatching. Vibration, such as footsteps,
prompts adult fleas to emerge from their cocoons. This is why you may be
bitten after entering a house that has been unoccupied for some time.
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Controlling fleas
It is absolutely essential for carpets to be thoroughly vacuumed especially
in low traffic areas, under furniture, etc, and throw away the bag, since it
will contain fleas and eggs, use a surface spray into the vacuum cleaner bag.
- Clean animal bedding and the general surrounds thoroughly.
- Wash outdoor areas which is used by your pet, such as kennels, with
appropriate insecticides.
- Maintain hygiene practices (regular vacuuming, keeping pets free of fleas
etc) to prevent another infestation.
- Restrict access of your dog and/or cat, to internal and subfloor
areas particularly during the summer months.
- A persistent infestation may need to be treated by a qualified pest
technician who can determine the type, source and extent of the infestation,
then use registered insecticides to control the fleas.
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