Blog Layout

These Fleas are driving me crazy! Insect IQ can Help!

Jonathan Simkins

Fleas are tiny insects that measure about 1/16 inch or 16 mm in size. They have a dark, reddish-brown color and lack wings, relying on their ability to jump to move around. Their bodies are flattened from side to side, allowing them to navigate easily through the hairs on the host's body. With long legs perfectly adapted for jumping, fleas can cover considerable distances. The surface of their hard bodies is smooth and glossy, adorned with numerous backward-facing hairs and short spines. Adult fleas possess specialized mouthparts designed for extracting blood from their hosts.


In Florida, various species of fleas can become troublesome pests. Among them, the cat flea is the most commonly encountered. Cat fleas have a wide range of potential hosts, including dogs, humans, chickens, rabbits, squirrels, rats, and mice. While other flea species like the dog flea, human flea, and sticktight flea can also be found in Florida, it is possible for multiple flea species to infest a single animal.

Call Now For A Free Inspection

BIOLOGY

The female flea deposits her small, white eggs loosely on the host's hairs, feathers, or surrounding habitat. These eggs easily detach from the host and can be found on the ground, floors, bedding, or furniture. In the span of several months, some fleas can lay up to 500 eggs by laying batches of three to 18 eggs at a time. The tiny eggs hatch within one to 12 days after being laid. The hatched larvae, resembling white worms  prefer darkness and primarily feed on dried adult feces. However, they may also consume deceased animal remains and other organic matter. In approximately seven to 14 days, assuming food has been abundant, the larvae complete their third stage of development and proceed to spin a small cocoon (as shown in Figure 4) where they enter the pupal stage. After about a week, the adult flea emerges from the cocoon and embarks on its quest for a blood meal.


Fleas can remain in the pupal stage anywhere from five days to five weeks when hosts are absent. They emerge as adults when vibrations from pets or humans signal the presence of a potential host. This explains why people returning to an unoccupied home may suddenly find themselves under attack by a swarm of fleas.


For reproduction, adult fleas rely on blood meals, but they can survive extended periods without feeding. Fleas tend to thrive and reproduce where pets typically rest, and individuals near these areas are also susceptible to flea bites. When fleas infest a home, they will feed on both humans and pets, often targeting the ankles and lower legs.

The so-called "sand-flea" is essentially a regular flea that breeds outdoors in the soil. Contrary to popular belief, fleas cannot go through multiple generations without consuming blood.



The complete life cycle of a flea can range from two weeks to two years. Egg laying is favored during hot and humid summer months, while hot and dry periods promote maximum adult production. Consequently, the highest populations of adult fleas typically occur in August to September.



CONTROL

Flea control poses challenges for pet owners as it typically requires two essential steps: (1) treating the pet and (2) treating the surrounding environment. Treating the pet alone is often effective as the animal can eliminate fleas and address infested premises. However, humans may still be bitten by fleas when they enter infested areas. To prevent flea bites, repellents can be applied to deter fleas from attacking.



Cat Flea Customer Prep List


 Understanding the flea

1. Cat fleas are the most common flea found on both cats and dogs

2. The flea life cycle can be completed in as little as 16 days.

3. The adult flea can survive several months without a blood meal.

4. The female flea needs a blood meal in order to lay eggs.

5. Fleas spend little time on animals.

6. They prefer warm dark places (e.g., under cushions, carp or in dark corners)


 Flea Control Animal

1. All flea control must be practiced on all animals in the household

2. Animals should be treated (flea dip) by a professional and scheduled during the residential flea treatment.

3. Launder pet bedding in hot water and dry hot


 Residential Flea Treatment

1. Pick up items on the floor (e.g., books, toys, plants, pet bedding, under the bed, etc.)

2. Vacuum flea breeding areas as well as the entire residence. (vibration will stimulate all flea



 Insect IQ Intensive Flea Treatment

1. Crack and crevice treatment will be performed to the entire residence.  (e.g., floors, under beds, under couches and chairs. In addition, cushions of chairs and couches will be removed and the cracks and crevices will be treated)

2. Exterior broadcast treatments will be done to the yard. One treatment at the time of service and a second treatment 15 days later. 



Or visit us at  https://www.insectiq.com/contact-us

Insect IQ / Nutrilawn Pest Services 27 years

  • DACS JB131270 Pest Control License Insect IQ
  • DACS JF8248 1994 Certified Pest Control Operator
  • DACS Certified Categories:
  • Pest Control
  • Lawn & Ornamental
  • Termite
  • Fumigation
  • State of Florida Registered Beekeeper: FL0290619S
  • 1994 UF Entomologist Jonathan Simkins
  • 2020 UF Entomologist Britton Simkins


By Jonathan Simkins March 25, 2024
Expert Insights: Managing the Annual Lubber Grasshopper Invasion from Insect IQ
By Jonathan Simkins November 30, 2023
Ensuring a Merry and Pest-Free Christmas: Expert Tips from Insect IQ
By Jonathan Simkins November 22, 2023
"Laughing Off Unwanted Thanksgiving Guests with Insect IQ"
By Jonathan Simkins November 14, 2023
Ensuring a Pest-Free Holiday Season with Insect IQ The holiday season brings joy and festivities, but amidst the cheer lies a concern often overlooked – the potential for insects and rodents to join the celebration through your Christmas decorations. At Insect IQ, we're here to guide you through common pests that may infiltrate your holiday decor and provide essential tips on how to prevent and address this unexpected issue.
By Jonathan Simkins August 28, 2023
Bat Season starts August 15th. We can help! The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has set the official bat maternity season from April 15th through August 15th. During this time, it is prohibited to remove, harm or exterminate bats, as this is the time when female bats are raising their young ones, and removing them can lead to the separation of the young from their mothers, causing harm to both the mother and the young. The FWC recommends that if you have a bat infestation on your property, it's best to wait until the maternity season is over before taking any action. However, if there are urgent public health and safety concerns, then FWC recommends contacting a wildlife removal professional or the local FWC office to determine the best course of action. It is important to note that even during the maternity season, if a bat poses an immediate threat to human health or safety, it can be removed by a professional under certain conditions. What To Do If You Suspect Bats In Your House  If you suspect rat or rodent activity, call a wildlife specialist for identification and next steps. Insect IQ has wildlife experts on staff to give you a free evaluation and help you determine what action (if any) you need to take to control your pest problem. For more information call 855-930-2847 (bugs). Or visit https://www.insectiq.com/our-services/wildlife-services for more information about wildlife services. LICENSE & CERTIFICATIONS DACS JB131270 Pest Control License Insect IQ DACS JF8248 1994 Certified Pest Control Operator #insectiq #bats #batbugs #bathouse #batnests #familyowned
By Jonathan Simkins August 3, 2023
AT INSECT IQ We strive to improve the world where we live, work, and play by protecting people, public health, food, and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. We deliver pest management solutions to commercial and residential customers throughout the Tampa Bay Market. We are experiencing year-upon-year continued growth and innovation by solving our customers’ day-to-day pest management, wildlife, termite, lawn & ornamental pest control, and stinging insect solutions. Wildlife Specialist Wanted Insect IQ is seeking a full-time, career-oriented individual to join our team as a Pest Control Technician. The ideal candidate will be able to work independently and be self-motivated. Experience in the field is helpful, but we are willing to train the right person.
By Jonathan Simkins August 3, 2023
AT INSECT IQ We strive to improve the world where we live, work, and play by protecting people, public health, food, and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. We deliver pest management solutions to commercial and residential customers throughout the Tampa Bay Market. We are experiencing year-upon-year continued growth and innovation by solving our customers’ day-to-day pest management, wildlife, termite, lawn & ornamental pest control, and stinging insect solutions. Wildlife Specialist Wanted Insect IQ is seeking a full-time, career-oriented individual to join our team as a Wildlife Technician. The ideal candidate will be able to work independently and be self-motivated. Experience in the field is helpful, but we are willing to train the right person.
By Jonathan Simkins July 23, 2023
What are occasional invaders and why do they enter your home? Britton Simkins notes that while many people in Florida are familiar with structural pests such as rodents, ants, cockroaches, and bed bugs, which infest and breed within buildings, there are also occasional invaders. These pests enter buildings on an infrequent basis, typically during specific months of the year, due to extreme weather conditions or accidental entry through small cracks and gaps in the building's structure. Occasional invaders are pests that invade buildings on an infrequent basis, usually during specific months of the year. They are not considered a major threat to humans, but their presence can be a nuisance. Examples of occasional invaders in Florida include millipedes, centipedes, silverfish, earwigs, crickets, and lady beetles, to name a few. Despite not being a significant threat, their presence should not be ignored, as it can indicate potential entry points for other pests. Occasional invaders typically enter buildings through small gaps or cracks in foundation walls, doorways, and windows, often attracted by lights and moisture. Once inside, they may feed on organic matter or seek shelter from the elements. In addition to being a warning sign for other pests, occasional invaders can also cause damage to property. For instance, silverfish and carpet beetles can damage fabrics and paper products, while millipedes and centipedes can stain walls and floors with their secretions. Therefore, it is important to take preventative measures to keep occasional invaders out of your building, such as sealing cracks and gaps in foundation walls, doors, and windows, and reducing moisture levels inside the building. By doing so, you can reduce the risk of an infestation by not only occasional invaders, but also other more harmful pests.
By Jonathan Simkins July 17, 2023
Identifying animal feces, commonly referred to as scat, can be a task that requires some attention to detail. The appearance of feces can vary depending on the animal's diet, making it a slightly challenging task. However, by asking the right questions and taking necessary precautions, you can narrow down the potential suspects. Please note that engaging in scat identification comes with potential hazards . It is important to prioritize your safety. Droppings can be unsanitary and carry germs, so it is crucial to handle them with proper protection. Avoid direct contact and minimize breathing near the droppings. If you must handle them, use tools, gloves, and wear appropriate clothing. Dust-borne particles from droppings can also pose health risks.
By Jonathan Simkins July 8, 2023
Caution: Roachpalooza - The Toothbrush and Toothpaste Edition! 
More Posts
Share by: