Today our pets are just as much a part of our family as anyone else. These cats, dogs, and other animals are an important part of the family. We love them just as much as any others, and some people even refer to them as fur babies. Protecting them from fleas is very important. These blood-sucking insects can cause the uncomfortable sensation of being bitten and can also transmit certain diseases and parasites to pets.
Contacting a Tulsa Pest Control company that can deal with them is important. So let’s take a good look at fleas and how they work.
Fleas use complete metamorphosis to develop into full-grown adults. They start as eggs. Adult fleas lay eggs while on a host animal, but the eggs are not firmly attached to the hair and commonly fall into areas where the animal spends time, such as bedding and resting areas. From there, the eggs hatch and larvae emerge. Oklahoma State University Extension explains the flea life cycle and how flea eggs and larvae develop in areas where pets spend time.
The larvae feed on organic material in their environment, including flea dirt produced by adult fleas. Flea dirt contains blood that has passed through the adult flea and can provide nutrition for developing larvae. Eventually, the larva forms a cocoon and enters the pupal stage.
Inside the cocoon, the flea develops toward the adult stage. A fully developed adult can remain protected in the cocoon until environmental signals associated with a possible host, including vibration and warmth, help trigger emergence.
Fleas have an amazing ability to jump relative to their small size. Their powerful hind legs allow them to jump onto a host animal. Once on the host, their body and legs help them move through and remain among the animal’s fur.
From here, adult fleas feed on blood, mate, and produce more eggs. Fleas can be a problem for pets because heavy infestations can cause irritation and blood loss, and fleas can also transmit certain pathogens and parasites. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides information about fleas, flea bites, and diseases associated with fleas.
Fleas can feed on dogs and cats, and they can bite humans as well. Humans generally are not the preferred long-term host for the common fleas found on pets, but their bites can still be uncomfortable.
If you think you’re having a problem with fleas or any other insects, it’s time to call a Tulsa Pest Control company that can help you out. TermMax Pest Control is really great when it comes to insects, including fleas. Call us today if you’re having an issue with pests.
