Let's talk about your pest problem. Call Beaver Pest Control on 020 8355 3443 #
A-Z of Pests: Fleas #
Beaver Pest Control is one of the top pest control companies in the UK. We don’t just want to get rid of pests for our customers; we also want to teach people about the pests we deal with every day.
Why flea control is important? #
Fleas are commonplace in the UK, affecting many people every day. There are around 60 species of fleas living in Britain. They survive by sucking blood from animals and humans.Â
Appearance #
Fleas (Siphonaptera) are wingless insects. They are tall and thin and vary in colour from greyish to dark brown. They have long hind legs that are particularly developed from jumping. They also have short by strong sucking mouthparts.
Mating and lifespan #
Fleas are tiny but tenacious insects. When it comes to making more fleas, they’re pretty good at it. Female fleas lay eggs on their host (your pet) or on soft furnishings i.e carpets, rugs, sofas or pet beds. The lifecycle of the flea takes place in four clear stages: egg, larva, pupa and imago (adult). The whole life cycle can take as little as a few weeks or stretch out for several months depending on the conditions.
Signs and traces #
Sightings are the most common sign you have fleas. You may see small black/brown insects either crawling on your pet’s fur or jumping on your carpets.
Look out for signs of fleas on your pet:
- Excessive Scratching
- Areas of Hair Loss
- Spots or Scabs
- Redness & Irritation
Bites from fleas will usually be around the ankles and legs. You may also find bites on your hands if you have been stoking your pet.
Treatment #
Before carrying out a treatment with an insecticide you must first ensure your pet has had a flea treatment carried out. Talk to your vet for more information about the best deal treatment for your pet.Â
We also recommend prior to treatment that you vacuum thoroughly all soft furnishings and floors. Ensure the vacuum bag is emptied following this to prevent re-infestation following treatment.
Wash all pest bedding, sofa cushions and blankets that your pet uses on a hot wash.
Carrying out these pre-treatment requirements will directly affect the success of the treatment. An insecticidal treatment can be carried out by a pest control technician to eradicate the remaining fleas.
