Fleas can be a persistent problem for many households, especially those with pets. These tiny pests not only cause discomfort but can also lead to serious infestations if left unchecked. Spotting the signs early is crucial in preventing a full-blown flea infestation. In this blog, we’ll outline 7 key signs of fleas in the house, explain how to tell how bad a flea infestation is, and share tips on how to avoid a flea infestation from occurring in your property.
How To Know If You Have Fleas
There are a number of telltale signs of fleas being present in the house. From bites on humans, pets scratching and movements on the carpet, the following occurrences may be signs of a flea infestation.
Frequent Scratching in Pets
One of the most obvious signs of fleas in the house is your pet scratching more than usual. Flea bites cause irritation and itching, leading to excessive grooming or scratching. Inspect your pet’s fur closely for small, dark fleas or dirt (tiny black specks) that may signal a flea infestation.
Unexplained Bites on Your Skin
Flea bites often appear as small, red, itchy welts, usually on your feet, ankles, or legs. If you’re waking up with new bites or notice itchy spots after spending time in certain rooms, it could be a sign of fleas in the house. However, be careful not to confuse flea bites with bed bugs.
Flea Dirt in Your Home
Flea dirt, or flea faeces, looks like tiny black specks and is often found in your pet’s bedding, carpets, or upholstery. To confirm it is flea dirt, place the specks on a damp paper towel and thoroughly inspect them. If they turn reddish-brown on the paper, it’s a sign of fleas in the house.
Fleas Jumping on Furniture or Floors
Adult fleas are small but visible to the naked eye. You may notice them hopping on carpets, sofas, or even your clothes. Pay attention to any movements on carpet, rugs or textile furniture. Fleas can jump great distances, so spotting one is a sign you may have a flea infestation.
Pet Hair Loss or Skin Issues
Severe flea infestations can cause hair loss, bald patches, or red, irritated skin in pets. If your pet is showing these symptoms, it’s a clear sign of fleas in the house. It’s important to act quickly to treat both your pet and home. We recommend professional pest control implementation.
Movement in Carpets or Bedding
A heavy flea infestation might result in visible movement in carpets, rugs, or pet bedding. Eggs, larvae, and pupae can live in these areas, so pay close attention when cleaning or vacuuming. If you can see something crawling, it can be an obvious sign of fleas in the house.
Difficulty Eliminating the Problem
If fleas persist despite cleaning and treating your pets, it’s a sign of a more serious flea infestation. This can help with how to tell how bad a flea infestation is and when help is required. At Total Pest Control, we offer flea removal services that can eliminate the problem effectively.
How To Tell How Bad a Flea Infestation Is
The severity of a flea infestation depends on the number of fleas and how long they’ve been in your home. To tell how bad a flea infestation is, make sure that you check for the following:
- The frequency of bites or scratching.
- The amount of flea dirt in your home.
- The presence of eggs or larvae in carpets or cracks.
- If multiple rooms are affected, or if fleas return despite treatment, the infestation may require professional intervention.
How To Avoid a Flea Infestation
Preventing fleas from taking hold in your home is essential. Fleas can cause damage and trigger allergic reactions in pets and humans. Follow these tips on how to avoid a flea infestation:
Regularly Treat Pets: Use vet-approved flea treatments on your pets year-round.
Vacuum Frequently: Focus on carpets, pet bedding, and under furniture. Dispose of the hoover bag or clean immediately.
Wash Bedding and Fabrics: Wash pet and human bedding in hot water to kill fleas and eggs.
Inspect New Items: Fleas can sit on second-hand furniture or rugs, so check thoroughly before bringing them into your home.
Seek Professional Help: If the problem persists, contact Total Pest Control for effective flea treatment and prevention.
Eradicate Fleas With Total Pest Control
By keeping an eye out for these signs of fleas in the house and following our prevention tips, you can ensure a comfortable, pest-free home. If you are struggling with how to know if you have fleas, get in touch. We can arrange a free inspection to determine the extent of the problem.
At Total Pest Control, we understand how distressing a flea infestation can be. Our experienced team provides effective solutions to eradicate fleas and prevent them from returning. Whether you’re dealing with a domestic or commercial pest problem, we’re here to help. Don’t let fleas take over your home.
Contact our expert team today to reclaim your space.
