Flea infestations can be some of the more challenging pest issues, and anyone stuck dealing with one is destined to suffer from itchy flea bites while they work on getting rid of the problem. Here's what you need to know about the life cycle of fleas, how you might be attracting them to your Northeast Ohio property, and the key to getting rid of them with help from a Northeast Ohio pest control company.
The Life Cycle Of The Common Flea
When trying to get rid of fleas, it's important to consider their life cycle. Fleas go through four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The time it takes fleas to progress through these stages depends on the temperature and humidity levels. Generally, it ranges from a couple of weeks to several months.
Following a blood meal, adult females will lay tiny, white flea eggs that look like grains of sand in bunches of about 20 eggs. These eggs are generally laid in pet fur but often fall off as your pet moves around and can be spread throughout an area.
As early as two days or as late as two weeks later, these eggs hatch into larvae that are 1/4 inches long, almost see-through white, and without legs. These larvae spin cocoons 5 to 20 days after hatching and enter the pupae stage. Cocoons have a sticky outer coating that makes it harder to eliminate them through vacuuming or sweeping. This coating also protects fleas from chemicals making elimination more difficult.
When fleas sense a potential host nearby, they emerge from their cocoons and begin feeding. Within a couple of days, the life cycle repeats.
Are You Accidentally Attracting Fleas?
It doesn't take much to attract fleas. They are not picky about their surroundings or their next meal. Any warm-blooded host will do. To avoid a flea infestation, think about the ways fleas can get inside and do your best to avoid them.
Dogs and cats are common vectors of fleas, and special care should be taken with your pets to avoid having them bring fleas into your home. Another potential attraction is overgrown lawn areas. Fleas will hide in tall grass and sheltered areas, so getting behind on yard maintenance can lead to more fleas nearby. Finally, rodents are another way fleas can get inside your home. It's important to eliminate mice and rats in or near your property.
How To Get Fleas Out Of Your House
Getting rid of a flea infestation often requires professional flea pest control, but there are things you can do to help with flea prevention, such as:
- Work with your veterinarian to keep pets treated for fleas year-round.
- Keep your home clean and vacuum frequently to remove any fleas or flea eggs that have gotten inside.
- Make sure your lawn is mowed regularly and landscaping maintained.
- Eliminate any nearby rodents that could be bringing fleas into your home.
If fleas make it past your defenses, don't delay calling the professionals.
The Key To Having No More Fleas In Your Northeast Ohio Home
If you feel like you can't get rid of fleas with natural flea treatments and prevention methods, call on the experts at Epcon Lane. We can help you break up the life cycle of fleas, get rid of existing infestations, and help you set up a plan to prevent fleas from returning. Call today for your estimate or to schedule flea control for your Northeast Ohio property.