Fleas-some fun, and not so fun, FACTS

Fun (?) Facts about fleas!

Fleas on our pets are NEVER fun but here are some facts (some fun, some not) about fleas that you may not be aware of:

1. 95% of the flea burden (eggs, larvae, pupae) is actually IN YOUR HOUSE and only 5% is on the pet. This is why treating the environment is very important (more later on this).
2. When you spot a flea on your pet it usually means fleas have been in your home for a good 1-2 months.
3. 75 fleas can suck lml of blood from a pet which is why so many kittens and puppies with fleas become anemic and/or die.
4. Once the female flea is on the pet and feeds on their blood, she lays 40-50 eggs/day which fall onto the carpet and/or upholstery. These eggs which then become larva, prefer darkness and depth of carpet.
5. When treating the home with an environmental flea spray: vacuum thoroughly first, remove pets, birds, and cover fish tanks before using a “spot on” spray to concentrate on areas under furniture, cracks of floors, sliding door thresholds (remember larva go for darkness and depth of carpet). Use a spray that contains an IGR (insect growth regulator) which does not allow the egg to hatch into an adult flea.
6. Be sure and use a veterinarian prescribed flea treatment on your pet as instructed. DO NOT USE DOG FLEA PRODUCTS ON CATS due to cats’ sensitivity to some products.
7. Be patient-flea medication used on your pet most of the time works in 24 hours to kill fleas but remember those eggs and larvae in your carpet mature into adults and jump back onto the pet. It normally takes a good 3 months to eradicate fleas from the household when you use flea medication on the pet and treat the household.
8. Foggers as environmental treatment are not preferred due to their inability to get under furniture where eggs/larvae prefer to reside. Daily vacuuming can pick up as much as 80% of flea eggs/larvae.
9. Ask your veterinarian which flea product is recommended for your pet and its situation. New topical and oral flea products are available and are much safer and effective than those from years past.
10. If you as the pet owner are getting flea bites—you have an infestation! Consult your veterinarian immediately as they may have you employ an exterminator. Be sure and inquire that what the exterminator uses and is safe for pets and young children especially toddlers!