Fleas in Idaho: A Guide for Pets and People

For pet owners, flea control is probably something you have already thought about. But did you know that fleas can be a problem for both pets and people? Your fur babies are an important part of the family, so keep them safe and keep your home free of fleas and other pests by hiring the professionals at Averse Pest Control. We have the answers to all of your flea control questions.

What do fleas look like?

Fleas are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of animals, including humans. They are about an eighth of an inch long with big hind legs that allow them to jump over a foot in distance. Fleas are narrow in the vertical dimension, allowing them to move easily through animal fur.

What are the signs of a flea infestation?

Fleas depend on a blood meal to survive, so they are constantly looking for a host animal. They prefer furry animals like cats, dogs, rodents, raccoons, etc. but in a pinch, they will also bite humans. Fleas can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, which will most often result in excessive scratching and grooming. If you notice these symptoms in your pet, take them to a veterinarian for a check-up. Bites and irritation can also show up on humans. 

Another sign of an infestation is flea feces, also known as flea dirt. The feces is most often found in areas where pets spend time. Flea dirt looks like coarse ground black pepper. Another obvious sign of a flea infestation is seeing adult fleas. It is important to remember that upwards of 95% of the fleas in the environment are invisible to the naked eye because they are in the form of eggs, larvae, or pupae. If you are able to see adult fleas in your home or on your pets, there are likely many many more unseen fleas. 

Where do fleas like to hide?

Fleas prefer warm, humid conditions, so homes provide a good environment for them to grow and reproduce. They can spread quickly from your pets to many other areas in your home. Common hiding spots for fleas include: pet beds, rugs, carpet, cracks and grooves in the floor, and behind or under furniture.

Where do fleas lay eggs in the house?

Female fleas will typically lay their eggs on the host animal. Since the eggs are not attached, they will fall off in areas where the pet or animal spends a lot of time. This means that flea eggs can be spread throughout your home. Since the eggs are invisible to the human eye, these eggs can go completely undetected until a new generation of fleas is born and reaches maturity.

Like the previous answer, pet beds, rugs, carpets, cracks and grooves in the flooring, and in and around furniture are all places where eggs may be found.

What are the best ways to control fleas?

Since fleas in homes are most often brought inside from cats or dogs, prevention must start there. Outdoor flea habitat like tall, thick grass should be eliminated, and pets should be under the care of a qualified veterinarian who provides approved flea control options. There are also a number of other things you can do to prevent flea infestations:

• Vacuum regularly, making sure to get under furniture and in the corners of rooms
• Wash pet beds often
• If you don’t have pets, locate the host that is bringing the fleas inside, which could be rodents or animals hiding in the attic like a feral cat, squirrels, raccoons, etc.
• Hire a Boise pest control professional to treat for fleas outdoors and indoors

Treasure Valley Flea Control

If you are already struggling with a flea problem, look no further than Averse Pest Control. First, a technician will come to your home and perform an inspection. Once we know what we are up against, we will formulate a plan to get rid of the fleas (or other pests) around your home and property. Our treatment plans are fast, safe and reliable.  We guarantee our work, so if you have problems we will come back and retreat for free. As a locally owned and operated business, we are deeply invested in our community and want to provide the best service possible. For Boise, Meridian, Caldwell, Kuna, and Nampa pest control, Contact Averse Pest Control today.