What to expect with Fleas

Fleas are small, wingless parasitic insects that feed off of warm-blooded animals by way of their skin-piercing mouths. A flea’s life begins after an adult female flea feeds off its’ host. She will then lay around 4-8 eggs, which fall off into the animal’s surroundings. After hatching, the eggs develop into larvae and enter the pupal stage. During the pupal stage, the flea encases itself in an egg and becomes resistant to most flea treatments. This particular stage can last up to 20 weeks. After this time, the adult flea will emerge from the egg either on its own or is spurred to do so by the vibrations made by any humans or animals that may be present.

An outdoor area that is warm and humid is the perfect environment for fleas to develop undisturbed. However, even if your pet spends most of its time outdoors, eggs can still be tracked indoors and then thrive in carpeting, bedding, or another pet in the home. This is why flea removal treatments seek to eliminate both adult fleas and their eggs. It’s not unusual to see a resurgence of flea activity after an initial treatment. A second treatment may be necessary especially if you’ve seen a lot of adult fleas prior to the treatment. The adult fleas make up approximately five (5%) percent of the real problem, which are the unhatched eggs and larvae. Over the course of twenty-one (21) days it’s very likely you will see new fleas hatching and more activity. Daily vacuuming after the initial flea treatment will help remove eggs and larvae, helping to prevent the resurgence of new flea hatching. If you have any questions about fleas and treating them, please be sure to call or email us. We’ll be glad to answer any and all of your questions.