Fleas: What You Need to Know and How to Get Rid of Them

Fleas may be tiny, but they can create a massive problem in your home. These pests feed on blood, spread quickly, and cause irritation for both humans and pets. At Yikes Pest Control, we believe knowledge is the first step toward protection. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about fleas—what they are, how they spread, and how to get rid of them.

What Are Fleas?

Fleas are small, wingless insects that survive by feeding on the blood of animals and humans. They have powerful legs that allow them to jump long distances, making it easy for them to move from pets to carpets, furniture, and even your skin. Adult fleas are only about 1/8 of an inch long, but their impact can be huge.

Signs of a Flea Infestation

It’s not always easy to spot fleas because of their size, but there are several tell-tale signs:

• Excessive scratching by pets.

• Red, itchy bites around ankles and legs.

• Tiny black specks (flea dirt) in pet bedding or carpets.

• Live fleas hopping on your pet or furniture.

If you notice any of these, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with a flea infestation.

Why Fleas Are a Serious Problem

Fleas aren’t just annoying—they can cause real harm. Their bites are itchy and uncomfortable, but fleas also carry diseases and can transmit tapeworms to pets. For animals, flea infestations may lead to anemia if left untreated. Quick action is essential.

How Fleas Enter Your Home

Fleas usually hitch a ride indoors on pets, but they can also come in on rodents, clothing, or even your shoes. Once inside, fleas can multiply rapidly. A single female flea can lay up to 50 eggs a day, and those eggs can fall into carpets, cracks, and upholstery. This is why flea infestations spread so quickly and become so difficult to control.

Flea Control Tips for Homeowners

While fleas are persistent, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation:

1. Regularly treat pets with veterinarian-approved flea prevention.

2. Vacuum daily, especially carpets and pet bedding.

3. Wash pet bedding and blankets in hot water.

4. Seal entry points to keep rodents and stray animals out.

5. Act quickly if you notice fleas—waiting only makes the problem worse.

Professional Flea Extermination

DIY methods like sprays and powders may kill a few fleas, but they rarely eliminate the entire infestation. Because fleas go through multiple life stages (egg, larva, pupa, adult), it’s nearly impossible to treat them all without professional help. At Yikes Pest Control, our trained technicians use proven, family- and pet-safe treatments that eliminate fleas at every stage of their lifecycle.

Stop Fleas Before They Take Over

Fleas reproduce quickly and thrive in hidden places, making them a challenge for homeowners. Don’t let these pests take control of your home. Contact the experts at Yikes Pest Control for safe, effective, and long-lasting flea treatments.

Learn more and schedule your flea control service today at www.yikespest.com.