Flea pest control for Hull
Flea larvae feed on debris and adult flea droppings. Adult fleas feed sole on vertebrate blood. Approx 1/8-inch-long, fleas have no wings and are laterally flattened and possess piercing and sucking mouthparts. Adult fleas have well developed legs which allow it to jump up to 6 inches in height. Their colouring is typically black to reddish-brown. The total lifecycle of the flea consists of just four weeks during the summer months. Their bites will cause an intense irritation centred around a bright red lump on the skin. People's reactions differ massively to a bite, both in terms of time taken to react and degree of reaction – hence the need for flea treatment and flea pest control services.
What are the signs of infestation?
You will probably first become alerted to the fact that your pet may have fleas by its constant scratching. Your suspicion can then be confirmed either by seeing fleas or flea droppings on the coat. Flea droppings are small black specks main composed of dry blood, and they are usually seen in clusters lying next to the skin. They are easy to spot in light coloured animals by brushing back the hair. In dark coated animals it may be better to comb the animal over a sheet of paper onto which any flea droppings will then fall. The identity of the black specks may be confirmed by adding a few drops of water - if they turn red, your pet has fleas.
Bites on you or family members - in humans, flea bites can produce an allergic reaction. The typical symptom of a flea bite is a small red spot 5mm or so in diameter. In sensitive individuals, however, the response can be worse and the bite intensely itchy.
Are fleas a health hazard?
In this part of Europe there is very little evidence to suggest that fleas transmit any serious illness to humans. However, flea bites can cause skin irritation and distress. If in doubt contact your GP for advise.
How did I get fleas?
In most situations a flea problem in the home, is caused by the cat or bird flea. These are the two most common fleas found today, followed by the dog flea. (The human flea is extremely rare). Fleas can be carried into the home by an animal or a person.
How can I prevent flea infestation?
There are many stages involved in treating a flea problem. In order to treat an infestation successfully the type and source of the flea needs to be determined. This may require professional identification.