Fleas

Description

Fleas are parasites of warm-blooded animals. There are a number of species, the most common being the cat flea and the dog flea.

The adult body is approximately 3mm long, brownish in colour, and is laterally compressed and covered in bristles.

Biology and Habitat

Fleas have a degree of host preference but will feed on other animals in the absence of the host, hence the frequent call upon the Council’s Pest Control Service to eradicate infestations of adult cat or dog fleas which are using humans as a food source.

A flea bite normally appears as a tiny dark red spot where the skin has been pierced surrounded by a reddened area; although this reaction can vary from person to person the bite persists for a couple of days and can be extremely irritating.

Fleas lay their eggs in the fur of the host or in its bedding. Within a week the eggs hatch into small larva, which then thrive in animal bedding or even in carpets, feeding on organic debris. After a short cocoon stage the adult flea emerges in week four but then may lay dormant until stimulated by a passing host, so explaining the manifestation of infestations in previously empty premises.

Importance

The rat flea in transmitting the causative organism from the rat to man was responsible for the infamous epidemic, the Great Plague of London in 1665. Whilst plague no longer occurs in the United Kingdom, the flea remains capable of spreading other diseases and parasitic worms.

Control

Infestations of fleas may occur in the cleanest of premises although regular cleaning will minimise the likelihood of breeding sites being established.

SO WHAT MEASURES CAN I TAKE?

1. Regular cleaning of carpets and furniture (including cracks and crevices) will deny the insects their breeding site.

2. Change the vacuum cleaner bag often.

3. The animals bedding should be thoroughly cleaned regularly.

4. Treat your pets regularly (see your vet for further advice as to the most appropriate treatment).

5. Insecticides can be used to treat infested premises and to protect them from re-infestation. However, this is only effective if measures 1-4 above are carried out regularly.

We offer a chargeable service for Flea treatment.

Safety

Should you decide to apply any insecticide yourself always read and follow the instructions as printed on the container.