Summer Time Means Flea Population Growth

So you thought you had conquered your flea problem. As the weather cooled down, and you used some over-the-counter flea products, it seemed everything was fine. You stopped finding itchy red bites on your ankles. Fluffy stopped scratching her ears. And Fido ceased that back-leg thumping he does when digging at his side. For a time, everything was calm. But now, as the weather is warming up, fleas are coming back! Why?

Why Flea Populations Increase In Warmer Weather

If you are noticing fleas coming back into your home recently, there is a good reason. See, all insect activity dies down when the weather gets colder. Insects, being cold-blooded, will either slow down, stop for awhile, or die in winter. And fleas are no exception. But fleas that are nice and cozy on an animal host can easily survive the winter. It is when rodents and wild animals come out of hiding (and into your yard) that you may notice an increase in flea activity.

The Problem With Fleas

If itchy bites were the only problem associated with fleas, we might be able to just shrug them off as a nuisance. But this isn't the case. Fleas have been known for centuries as vectors of many diseases. A few of the illnesses that can be transmitted by fleas include tungiasis, typhus, and spotted fever. In addition to this, they can also cause flea allergy dermatitis, hair loss and skin irritation for pets. And if a pet has a large number of fleas, this can cause anemia, especially in kittens or puppies. Another issue that bears mentioning is tapeworms. Usually, only animals get these from the ingestion of fleas, but small children have been known to get these worms if fleas, or parts of fleas, are ingested.

How are they getting in?

As mentioned above, fleas travel on rodents or wild animals. If there are attractants in your yard, such as places to hide, and food and water sources, then animals will be drawn in. They may drop fleas or flea eggs on your lawn where pets will later pick them up and bring them inside. Fleas can also find their way inside when mice, rats, or other furry creatures find ways to enter your home.

Why Professional Treatment Is Best

While some flea products work some of the time, homeowners often find themselves in a never-ending battle as fleas come back to infest time after time. The most certain way to get rid of fleas and keep them away is to partner with a professional pest control company that has the experience and products to get the job done right the first time. If you have questions or would like to schedule residential pest contol service, reach out to Arrow Pest Control today. Flea-free is the way to be. Period.