Warning Signs a Home Has Fleas

Fleas can be a significant nuisance, but they are also relatively easy to miss.

Fleas can be a significant nuisance, but they are also relatively easy to miss. Therefore, knowing the warning signs of fleas is key to getting rid of them quickly and effectively.

This article will discuss eight common warning signs that a home has fleas:

Scratching

If a home has pets, excessive scratching is one of the first signs of a flea infestation. Fleas bite animals and cause intense itching and discomfort. Therefore, if the household pets scratch more than usual, it could signify that fleas have bitten them.

Hair loss

A common sign of fleas is hair loss, especially around where pets often scratch. That includes their heads, necks, and backs. In addition, if bald patches or large amounts of dandruff-like flakes are on their fur, it may be time to check for fleas.

Ankle bites

One of the telltale signs of having a flea problem is ankle bites. Fleas tend to gravitate towards the lower body parts when feeding due to their small size, making them difficult to detect until it's too late. If someone in the household feels like something is biting their ankles while sitting at home or lying in bed, it may be time for a flea inspection.

Welts and red skin

Flea bites can cause welts and redness in both humans and animals. These small welts usually appear around ankles and wrists, as these areas are often exposed to fleas.

The white sock test

One of the most common ways to tell if a home has fleas is by doing what is known as the "white sock test." This involves putting on a pair of white socks and walking around the house for about 10 minutes. The goal is to attract fleas for a bite. After a few minutes, check the socks for fleas.

Pale gums

Infested pets often become anemic due to blood loss from the bites. As a result, their gums may become pale or gray in color rather than pinkish-red (which is what healthy gums should look like).

Flea dirt

Flea dirt appears in the form of tiny black specks which will smudge when rubbed against something damp. This is usually one of the first signs of a flea problem, as it's easy to spot dirt on fabrics such as carpets and furniture upholstery.

Flea eggs

To check for flea eggs, run a fine-toothed comb through your pet's coat and then quickly examine the comb afterward. Any small, white flakes appearing on the comb are likely flea eggs.

Reach out to a professional pest extermination service

Fleas in a home can be an unpleasant and nerve-wracking experience. It's best to call a professional pest extermination service as soon as one suspects an infestation. Trained, experienced professionals will use their expertise to identify problem areas, evaluate the severity of the infestation, and treat it with the most effective methods available.

Kinder Safe Pest Solutions offers 17 years of experience in commercial and residential pest control serving Manatee and Sarasota counties. Call (941)254-2180 today!