Everything You Need To Know About Fleas & Ticks
Fleas and ticks are two of the most common pests that can invade your home. They can cause a lot of damage, as well as pose a health risk to both you and your pets. It is important to know how to identify these pests, as well as how to prevent them from becoming a problem. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about fleas and ticks!
Fleas Vs Ticks
The first thing you need to know is that fleas and ticks are not the same. They may look similar, but they are actually two different pests. Fleas are small, wingless insects that live off the blood of animals. Ticks, on the other hand, are parasitic arachnids that attach themselves to their host in order to feed on their blood.
Ticks are similar to spiders and mites, and fleas are more closely related to ants and beetles. Ticks can be found in both urban and rural areas, whereas fleas are more commonly found in homes with pets. Both fleas and ticks can cause a number of problems, including skin irritation, anemia, and even Lyme disease.
Flea and Tick Life Cycle
There are four stages in the flea life cycle: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The flea eggs are laid on the ground or in cracks and crevices. Once they hatch, will feed on organic debris. Once they mature into adults, they will begin to search for a host. The adult fleas will live on their host for several weeks, during which time they will mate and lay eggs. The cycle then begins anew. The entire process can take anywhere from two weeks to eight months.
The tick life cycle is similar, but there are three stages: egg, larva, and adult. The eggs are laid on the ground or in vegetation. Once they hatch, the larva will climb onto a host and begin to feed. Once it has fed for a few days, it will drop off the host.
How do you tell if you have fleas and ticks in your house?
It is important that you look out for signs of fleas and ticks in your house. Check your pets first. If you see your pet excessively licking or scratching itself, it may have fleas or ticks. Check its fur and skin for any flea dirt (black specks that look like pepper) or actual fleas. If you spot any fleas, remove them with a flea comb or your fingers. Ticks are usually larger than fleas and can be seen with the naked eye.
Keep an eye out for flea dirt (flea feces) around your home as well. Flea dirt looks like small black specks and is usually found in areas where your pet sleeps or spends a lot of time. Fleas and ticks are usually found in areas with high humidity. This means that they are often found in places like the bathroom, kitchen, or basement.
What are some treatments for flea and tick bites?
There are a number of treatments available for flea and tick bites. Some over-the-counter options include creams, ointments, and sprays. If you're looking for something more natural, there are also essential oils that can be used to repel fleas and ticks. If you think you have a severe flea or tick infestation, it's best to consult with a pest control professional to get rid of the problem.
Can fleas and ticks live on humans?
Fleas can live on humans, but they prefer to live on animals. Ticks can also live on humans, but they are more likely to bite humans if they are already infected with a disease. They will also usually only bite humans if they are unable to find a suitable animal host.
How do you get rid of fleas and ticks?
If you think you might have fleas or ticks in your home, the best thing to do is contact a pest control professional. They will be able to identify the problem and come up with a plan to get rid of the fleas and ticks for good. In the meantime, there are some things you can do to prevent fleas and ticks from taking over your home:
- Vacuuming: Vacuum regularly and dispose of the bag immediately. This will help you get rid of any flea or tick eggs, larvae, or adults that might be hiding in your carpets.
- Steaming and Washing: Fleas and ticks hate the heat, so be sure to wash all of your bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water. You can also use a steamer on upholstered furniture and in cracks and crevices to kill fleas and ticks.
- Flea Comb: Use a flea comb on your pet's fur to remove fleas and ticks. Be sure to dispose of the fleas and ticks that you catch.
- Tick and Flea Powders: There are many powders on the market that will help kill fleas and ticks. Be sure to follow the directions on the package, and only use products that are safe for your pet.
- Keeping Your Pests Indoors: One of the best ways to prevent fleas and ticks is to keep your pets indoors. If you must take them outside, be sure to check them for fleas and ticks when they come back inside.
If you have done all of this and want to take the pressure off of you, don’t wait any longer to call Southern Spray. We’ve been providing quality flea and tick control services to Tennessee and Mississippi since 1972. Our highly trained exterminators can solve your flea and tick problem in no time.