Fleas

What are fleas?

Fleas are small, parasitic insects that feed by sucking blood from mammals and birds. While immature fleas do not bite, adult fleas usually feed several times a day.

Fleas:

  • are dark brown or reddish brown
  • have flat bodies
  • are 1 to 4 mm (.04 to .16 inches) long
  • are wingless
  • can jump up to 20 cm (8 inches) vertically and 41 cm (just under 16 inches) horizontally

In most parts of Canada, the peak flea season is early August to early October.

Why should I be concerned about fleas?

Fleas are not just an annoyance. They can cause discomfort for you and your pet. Some people and animals get an allergic reaction to flea saliva, which creates a rash.

In animals, fleas can cause:

  • hair loss from frequent scratching and biting
  • anemia (not enough red blood cells in the blood) in extreme cases

Fleas can transmit:

  • parasites like tapeworms
  • diseases like typhus

A flea bite creates a small, hard, red and itchy spot. The spot:

  • is slightly raised and swollen
  • has 1 puncture point in the middle

Flea bites often appear in clusters or lines. They can be itchy and inflamed for up to several weeks.

How do I check my pet for fleas?

Adult fleas prefer to stay on pets and only leave after feeding. Their eggs, larvae (immature fleas) and pupae can be found in and around where pets sleep.

During peak flea season and after contact with other animals, you should:

  • Check your pet regularly for:
    • black particles the size of ground pepper on your pet's skin near the tail
  • Inspect areas that your pets often go to for signs of fleas:
    • sleeping areas
    • dog houses
    • kennels

How can I prevent fleas in the home?

You can reduce the chance of fleas coming into your home by:

  • keeping cats indoors
  • inspecting your pet regularly
  • regularly mowing and raking your lawn to discourage animals that may carry fleas
  • repairing window screens and other places that unwanted animals can use to enter your home
  • covering sandboxes when they are not being used

You can prevent your pet from getting fleas by using pest control products made for pets. Most of these products come into contact with the pet's skin. It is important to use the right product for your pet and read and follow the directions on the label.

What do I do if my pet has fleas?

If your pet has fleas, you will need to treat the pet and areas used by your pet. You should use both physical and chemical control methods.

To get rid of fleas on your pet, focus on the neck or tail, where fleas tend to gather.

A flea comb will remove most:

  • fleas
  • flea feces
  • dried blood

Kill the fleas by putting them in hot, soapy water.

To get rid of fleas in your home:

  • Wash pet and family bedding in hot, soapy water every 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Lift blankets by all 4 corners to avoid scattering the eggs and larvae. If an infestation is severe, replace old pet bedding.
  • Vacuum carpets and cushioned furniture daily.
  • Clean around cracks and crevices on floors and along baseboards.
  • Steam-clean carpets.

You will need to treat areas frequented by pets:

  • baseboards near sleeping quarters
  • points of entry (for example, around door and window frames)
  • small areas in the yard where pets rest or play (like dog houses)

If the flea problem persists, contact a licensed pest control operator in your area.

Source: Health Canada