Fleas
 |
There are over 2000 species of flea world wide, the most common of which are the cat flea and the dog flea. Fleas are small insects which bite their hosts in order to extract blood. |
- They live in furnishings, bedding and carpets in the home. They are reddish coloured and are instantly recognisable by their extremely long hind legs and flattened shape.
- Flea larvae feed on organic debris and actively move deep into carpet where they pupate, and may remain undisturbed for many months.
- Adult fleas are stimulated by vibration and emerge hungry from their cocoons.
- All fleas live exclusively as parasites on warm blooded animals and although they have a preferred host, normally mammals, both the cat and dog flea can also feed from other animals and man. As well as being found on the host, fleas can be found in the host's bedding. Cat fleas are by far the most common.
How do I know if fleas are present?
- Fleas should always be considered if your pet starts to scratch. If you part the coat so you can see the skin - you may see a flea. More likely you will see the presence of "flea-dirt", which is tiny black specks just visible on the skin surface. This is the faeces of the flea containing digested blood.
- It is possible for humans to get bitten by fleas too. If any member of your family gets red sore bites (often on the lower legs or feet) then it is worth considering that there may be a flea infestation in the house. If this happens you should also get your pets checked out.
Lifecycle
- Flea eggs are small, oval shaped and pearl white in colour and are laid indiscriminately in fur or feathers of the host or in its bedding or resting material.
- The eggs hatch in about one week into white thread like larvae. The larvae thrive in dark, humid places such as carpets and animal bedding.
- After 2-3 weeks when they are fully grown the larvae spin a cocoon and pupate.
- The adult usually emerges within 7 weeks but can remain as a pupae all winter only emerging when triggered by the movement of a suitable host.
- Most of the flea's life cycle is in the soft furnishings and pets bedding, not on the animal. Eggs are laid in the pets coat and drop into the carpets, thereby establishing a new generation of fleas in the house. Treatment of the environment, as well as the animal, is essential to control fleas. It has been estimated that for every flea on the animal there are more than 100 in the carpets and bedding.
Significance
Fleas are known carriers of disease and can also be responsible for the transmission of parasitic worms. In the UK however, fleas are not generally responsible for the spread of infection but do inflict on their host unpleasant bites.
Flea bites will be seen as a tiny red spot surrounded by a reddened area. The bite will remain irritating for one to two days and, in some cases may lead to hypersensitivity. The irritation can be reduced by using ointments available from your local chemist.
Control
- It is important to regularly check pets for any sign of fleas. This can be done by grooming the pet with a flea comb. If a flea is found it can be disposed of by placing it under water in a small bowl. Flea collars can be fitted to cats and dogs and are effective for several months. More advice on such preventative measures can be obtained from your veterinary surgeon.
- Thoroughly clean all infested clothing and bedding including pet bedding.
- Thorough vacuum cleaning, especially in cracks and corners, on rugs, alongside radiators and your pet's favourite places in the house. Don't forget to vacuum the car if your dog travels with you!
- Ensure your pets are free from infestation. Suitable insecticides are available from your vet or pet shops. Care should be exercised if insecticides are to be used in kitchens or food areas. This is because of the risk of contaminating food. The manufacturers instructions on the insecticide label should be followed.
- Fareham Borough Council does provide a service for the treatment of premises infested with fleas, although a charge is made for this service. Should you require a service please contact Environmental Health. There is a charge for this service. Alternatively you may wish to employ a private pest control company which can be found in the Yellow Pages.
NB: Please be aware that there is very little point in treating the premises unless the animal is disinfested at the same time. If you make an appointment for the Pest Control Officer to call you should ensure that any animals can be de-flead at the same time. The Pest Control Officer cannot carry out treatments to animals.
If you would like to discuss any of the above or seek advice on a particular pest control problem please email us at regulatory@fareham.gov.uk or telephone us on Tel: 01329 236100.
|.
|.
