When we think about fleas and ticks, our minds immediately turn to our furry friends. However, one of the most commonly asked questions we receive is:
why do I have a flea infestation when I have no pets? It’s a common misconception that only buildings with animals can be affected by fleas. In reality, there are many reasons why
flea control issues can arise in your home.
Here are just some of the reasons you could experience a
flea infestation without pets:
- You’ve just moved into a new home
If the previous homeowner had pets, chances are your property is at risk for a flea infestation. When adult fleas lay eggs on their hosts, they don’t stay there, but rather fall off around the house as the host moves around. These flea eggs can survive in carpeting and furniture and lie dormant for a few weeks or even months before hatching when the conditions are right.
- You have a rodent control problem
Sometimes, household pests like rats or mice carry fleas that infect the homes or structures that they find shelter in. Sealing your home from rodents and other wild animals could prevent flea control issues occurring, not to mention the health risks of these disease-carrying pests.
Dealing with a rat infestation?
Click here to learn more about our professional rodent control services.
- Wandering cats or dogs frequent your neighbourhood
If your neighbours’ dogs regularly get out, or their cats often visit your home or garden, they could be leaving their fleas behind to infest your property. Make sure your home is closed off from wandering pets by keeping your gate closed and shutting your windows during the day or when you’re not around.
- You’ve bought second hand furniture
Getting a good deal on a couch or carpet is great, but just make sure you’re not inheriting someone else flea control problem. Before you bring your second-hand furniture home, get them professionally cleaned to rid them of any fleas or pests lurking inside.
Click here to find out more about our upholstery cleaning service, or to get a quote.
Identifying a flea infestation without pets
Without the tell-tale sign of pets constantly scratching, it can be a bit difficult to know if you have a flea infestation. The most obvious method of detecting whether you’ve got fleas is by seeing them. These tiny pests have flat brown bodies and six long legs with the ability to jump really high. Flea bites on humans is also a sure-fire way to tell if you have fleas. Flea bites appear as small red bumps on the skin in clusters, generally on the arms, legs and feet.
Treating a flea infestation without pets
While treatments exist for pet owners to clear their pets’ coats from fleas, getting rid of these pests from your home is another story. Besides a thorough clean of your home, the best way to
get rid of fleas for good is to invest in professional
flea control services.
Get a quote! Contact your local pest control expert to discuss customised
flea control solutions for your home.
