Fleas – Order Siphonaptera

History

Fleas are parasitic insect pests of mammals. They depend on a 'host' animal for food and development which can be a cat, a dog, a fox, a bird or even in rare cases humans. The fleas most commonly encountered are the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis felis) and the dog flea (Ctenocephalides canis).

Adult fleas vary in size, but are generally about 2-3mm long and reddish brown in colour. There are too many types to list as there are around 1400 known species of flea.

Why Control Fleas ?

Fleas will normally only feed on their host ie cat or dog. However, they frequently bite humans with the following results :

• Some people are particularly sensitive to the bites and experience an allergy and inflammation which can be quite severe and require medical attention.

Method of Control

• Identify the source of the infestation
• Carry out a spray treatment with an approved insecticide to kill the adult fleas and larvae.
• Before doing this, a thorough vacuum clean of the premises should be undertaken.
• The affected animal should also receive treatment from a vet. 
• Pupa can occasionally survive treatment, so a second spray treatment may be required to ensure adequate insecticide is available when they eventually hatch out!

To find out more about how we can help you on a one-off job basis or with a longer term preventative Service Plan please call us on freephone 0800 0283 703. Alternatively contact us using our online contact form for a free survey and detailed quotation on how we can eradicate your pest problem. 

Professional Pest Solutions Since 1979

Cramond, Rectory Close, Crieff, Perthshire, PH7 3EA