Fleas: Everything You Need to Know

Have you noticed signs of a flea infestation in your home? Fleas are one of the most challenging pests to get rid of, and it’s important to be aware of how they live and reproduce to effectively eliminate them. Here is a look at everything you need to know about fleas and what you can do to prevent them. 

Fleas Need a Host 

Fleas are parasites that live off the blood of other animals. They require a host to survive, so if you think you may have fleas in your home, check for signs on pets or around areas where animals frequent. Fleas typically prefer warm temperatures and high humidity levels, which makes them common in many households during the summer months. 

Fleas Live for 100 Days 

A female flea can lay up to 500 eggs over its lifetime, which is why they’re so challenging to get rid of once they enter your home. The eggs hatch within 2-14 days and then go through several stages before reaching adulthood. This entire process can take anywhere from 1-3 months depending on factors such as temperature and humidity levels in your home. On average, adult fleas can live for up to 100 days before dying off naturally or being eliminated by treatment methods. 

Flea Prevention Tips 

The best way to protect your home from fleas is with prevention measures such as frequent vacuuming, using insect repellents inside and outside your home, washing pet bedding regularly, treating pets with flea medication prescribed by a veterinarian, sealing cracks and crevices around windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping, and having professional pest control services treat affected areas in your home. Additionally, try not to attract wild animals onto your property as this will make it easier for fleas to find hosts nearby. 

Flea infestations can be a major problem if left untreated. Homeowners need to be aware of their presence so that proper steps can be taken for control and elimination when necessary. Knowing what attracts these pests into homes is key; understanding their life cycle helps even more so that effective prevention measures can be taken before an infestation occurs or becomes severe. With the right preventive measures in place—including regular vacuuming, insect repellents both indoors and outdoors, washing pet bedding regularly along with pet medication treatments prescribed by veterinarians—you should be able to keep flea problems at bay while protecting both your family and pets from harm caused by these pests.

Want to learn more about the pests your home might be susceptible to? Check out more information at our Pest Library at Natura Pest Control!