When you think of fleas, you might imagine a pest that’s only an issue for people with a lot of pets, and you also might have a lot of questions about what fleas actually are and how they get around. The truth is, fleas aren’t just an issue for pet owners, as even animal-free homes can deal with these nasty pests.
What To Know About Fleas In Georgia
There are actually around 2,500 different species of flea, but the most common kind of flea in Savannah, GA, is the cat flea.
These tiny pests are only about 1/8 of an inch long when full-grown, and they have oval-shaped bodies and are a reddish color. However, because they're so small, you might notice other signs of fleas, such as finding flea droppings around your home or noticing that your pets are scratching their fur incessantly, without ever actually seeing a flea.
While fleas don’t actually live on or ride around on human hosts, they can get into carpets and furniture and can spread illness to people as well as pets. They are known for transmitting typhus, bartonellosis, and even bubonic plague. Plus, fleas can also cause allergy attacks.
How Do Flea Infestations Start?
While pets are often one of the main ways fleas get inside Savannah homes, they aren’t the only way. Wild animals and pests like rodents can also bring fleas onto your property.
But, the basic way that all animals find themselves afflicted with fleas is the same. Fleas jump from host to host, so coming into contact with other animals is the main way pets or pests will become infected. However, unlike ticks, fleas generally don't jump from an animal host to a human host.
Some Simple Flea Prevention Tips
Because of the very small size of fleas, it can be difficult to identify an infestation right away. Because of this, and because of the dangers fleas pose, one of the best ways to keep yourself, your family, and your pets safe is to take preventive measures.
The overall best way to keep fleas away is to reduce the factors that attract wild animals and other pests like rodents onto your property. Here are a few of the best way to do so:
- Install fences around your yard to keep larger wildlife away.
- Get rid of bird feeders and keep any pet food stored inside.
- If you do have pets, especially dogs and cats, work with your vet to keep them protected from fleas.
- Focus on rodent prevention, as rats and mice are common carriers of fleas. Make sure to keep kitchen areas cleaned and cover all trash cans with lids.
- Vacuum carpets on a regular basis and mop hard floors.
Help With Flea Infestations
If you’re looking for assistance with preventing and eradicating fleas, the best way to do so is with help from the experts at Prestige Pest Control. By working with residential pest control experts (as well as your vet, if you have pets), you can keep these dangerous pests out of your home.
With nearly 35 years of experience, you can trust that our trained technicians can handle any pest infestation. To find out more or request your free quote, give us a call today at (912) 551-8163. You can also send us a message online, and we will get back to you to answer any questions you might have.