What do fleas look like?
Fleas are very small; many people may mistake them for a fleck of dirt, until they jump away. Fleas are dark brown and have a flat body that is very hard; their hard body makes it extremely difficult to effectively squish them. Adults grow to be about 1/8th of an inch in length and they have very large powerful back legs that they use for jumping.
What do flea bites look like?
Flea bites result in small red spots that are encircled by a red halo and have a single puncture in the center. Flea bites on humans generally occur on the legs and feet. In domestic animals they can be found all over the body. Flea bites are extremely itchy and some people and pets are allergic to their saliva exacerbating any symptoms.
Flea bites vs. bed bug bites
It is important to identify what is biting you so that you can seek treatment for the proper pest. Listed below are some tips to tell the difference between flea bites and bed bug bites.
- Fleas generally bite people on the legs and feet, elbow, and knee areas. Bed bug bites generally occur on the hands, face, neck, and arms of people (all areas exposed while sleeping).
- Fleas will bite constantly while bed bugs usually bite intermittently.
- Flea bites are found in random groups; bed bugs create their bites in straight lines of three or more.
- Flea bites create a small raised bump, bed bug bites create a more swollen bump and are very similar in appearance to a mosquito bite.
Are fleas dangerous to people and pets?
Yes, fleas are dangerous to people and pets. The itchy flea bites can lead to loss of fur in pets, and scabbing and scarring in both people and pets. Scratching may also lead to a secondary infection that requires medical attention from a physician or veterinarian. Fleas are also capable of spreading dangerous diseases and parasites including dog tapeworm, rodent tapeworm, plague, and murine typhus.
How do I get rid of fleas?
You don’t have to have a pet to have a flea problem; wild animals including mice often introduce fleas onto properties and because fleas are prolific breeders, once they arrive they are very hard to get rid of without professional treatment. At Spencer Pest Services, we offer a couple of options to get rid of fleas. Learn more about our Outdoor Living program and how it controls fleas and other outdoor pests including fire ants and mosquitoes. Or, for year-round protection against common household pests, termites and outdoor insects, click here!
What must be done prior to my flea treatment?
For optimal results, preparing your home and pets is a must. Please view our Flea Treatment Preparation Sheet for more details.