Facts About Fleas: Protect Your Pets and Home in Perth

Fleas are more than just an annoyance and threaten both animal and human health. It is important to know the lifecycle of these small parasitic insects so you can take necessary steps to stop them from spreading throughout your home.

Fleas are tiny, brown, wingless insects 2-4mm long. With a set of six powerful legs, they can leap as much as 200 times the length of their own bodies. Fleas are primarily found on dogs and cats but can also be harboured in carpets, bedding, floorboards, long grass and other warm, damp places indoors. The Blood Sucking Parasites Fleas suck the blood of mammals, including humans, dogs, cats and other rodents with whom they can easily jump from one host to another.

The life cycle of the flea has four principal stages: eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults. Eggs are laid in batches of 4–8, and the adult female will continue laying eggs for several weeks. The eggs will hatch into larvae after 2 days to 2 weeks. Larvae are the little worms :) which eat organic debris ( dead skin and hair, adult flea faeces) that fall off Host 1. Larvae then begin to spin cocoons that attach to carpets, pet fur or bedding, and the eggs enter the pupal stage after a few months. Pupae stay in adult form for a while until they feel the ideal condition, warm and humid with a host nearby, before releasing their adults. This process can occur in as little as five to fourteen days, but in most cases takes six weeks to twelve months.

Fleas may be more than just an itchy nuisance; the little blood-suckers can pose health risks for pets that could turn deadly in some cases. Keep in mind, adult fleas account for only 5% of the total population; eggs, larvae and pupae make up the other 95%. In pets, flea bites present as red lumps or blisters that can become inflamed from the pet's scratching. This can cause open sores and secondary infections. Perth pet owners will need to check their pets for excess scratching and seek veterinary care if required.

Home Cleanliness is key in preventing flea infestations. Frequent vacuuming and mopping, as well as washing pet bedding in hot water once a week, can help control flea populations. Floors should be vacuumed or otherwise cleaned 2-3 times a week, especially in those sections where pets tend to stay the most.

For comprehensive protection, Perth pet owners should consider professional flea treatments. Annual treatments can prevent flea outbreaks during the warmer months. Edge Termite Treatment Midvale offers complete pest control services in Midvale and surrounding areas. Feel free to contact them at (08) 6275 6528 or visit their website:

👉 https://eagletermitetreatmentherne.com.au/