Fleas are unwelcome pests that can cause discomfort and health issues for both humans and pets. A flea infestation can quickly get out of hand, so it's crucial to know its tell-tale signs! If you suspect your property in Tennessee is infested with fleas, the common signs you need to watch out for are excessive scratching from your pets, flea dirt, bites on humans, and visible fleas. Because these tiny pests quickly reproduce, you'll want to contact a professional pest control company right away. Fleas are tricky to get rid of because they are easy to miss, but leaving only a few of them can quickly restart the infestation. In addition to getting rid of them, you'll also want to give your pets proper care, like washing their bedding, getting them to a veterinarian, and giving them flea baths.

What are the signs of a flea infestation?

Dog in Memphis, TN, scratching its neck.

It's tough to detect fleas. More often than not, you'll notice that there's an issue when these pests have already invaded your property. These pests are tiny, fast, and know where to hide. However, if you know what to look for, then you can detect them and get proper intervention immediately. Here are some signs that may indicate a flea infestation:

  • Excessive Pet Scratching: If your pets are scratching more than usual, it could be a sign of fleas. Fleas bite and irritate the skin, causing discomfort for your furry friends. You'll want to check your pet's neck, tail, and thighs because that what fleas usually attack.
  • Flea Dirt: Flea dirt, which looks like tiny black specks, is actually flea feces. You may notice this dirt on your pet's fur or in their bedding.
  • Flea Bites on Humans: Flea bites on humans often appear as small, red, itchy bumps. These bites are usually clustered around the ankles or lower legs.
  • Seeing Fleas: If you see small, jumping insects on your pet or in your home, it's a clear sign of a flea infestation.

Contact Professionals Immediately to Eliminate The Flea Infestation

Once you suspect a flea infestation, it's essential to contact professionals for assistance. Fleas are notoriously tricky to eliminate, and attempting to do it yourself may not be effective. These pests are difficult to eradicate. They have a rapid life cycle, and if you miss just a few fleas during treatment, the infestation can quickly restart. Professional pest control experts have the knowledge and tools to effectively eliminate fleas.

When you work with pest control professionals, they will conduct a thorough inspection of your home and yard to identify the extent of the infestation. They will then implement a comprehensive treatment plan to target fleas at every stage of their life cycle. Additionally, experts will also provide guidance on preventing future flea infestations, such as recommending flea prevention products for your pets and offering tips for maintaining a flea-free environment.

What to Do for Your Pets During a Flea Infestation

While professionals handle the infestation, there are steps you can take to protect your pets. Firstly, you'll want to work closely with your veterinarian as they can recommend flea prevention products tailored to your pet's needs. These may include topical treatments, oral medications, or flea collars. It's also important to groom them regularly and give them flea baths to eliminate any fleas on their body. Additionally, you'll want to wash your pet's bedding, toys, and any fabric items they frequently use in hot water to kill fleas and their eggs.

You can use a flea comb to get rid of any fleas attached to your pet's fur.

Call us today to sign up for our flea control service!

If you suspect a flea infestation, don't wait to take action. Reach out to our pest control professionals right away! Here at Picture Perfect Landscapes, we offer a flea control service that involves treating your property every 30 days from April to October to target fleas when they are most active. During these visits, we will apply the treatments to your landscape beds, lawn, shaded areas, and other spots where fleas might be hiding.

Our flea control service is offered to commercial and residential properties, as well as HOAs, in Memphis, Midtown Memphis, East Memphis, and surrounding communities in Tennessee. Give us a call today at (901) 246-7656 to sign up!