Getting Rid Of Household Pests – Fleas
One of the most annoying and irritating household pest you can suffer from is fleas, which will be in most homes if you have a family pet dog or cat. These little beasties can be a real pain so its best to get a jump on the bugs, before they start hopping all over you and your loved ones.
For an insect to be so small, fleas can cause huge problems. Fleas are bloodsucking parasites that are classed in an order of insects whose scientific name means, ‘wingless siphon.’
When fleas bite, a tiny amount of anti-coagulating agent is injected with the saliva, to permit easier siphoning of the blood. Both sexes of the species depend on blood to survive and reproduce.
The part that will make your skin crawl- fleas can transmit tapeworms and infections to animals and humans. Fleas are the major cause of chronic hives, especially on the legs of little children, and continual scratching may lead to secondary infections.
Fortunately flea pest control can fall firmly under the banner of diy pest control so unless you have a really serious problem, try a little self help first. Pest control advice will be available from your local supplier who will be well used to the problem so no need to feel embarrassed.
The aim here is to target all the areas where fleas can hide. There are plenty of reliable pest control products on the market to rid our homes of flea infestation.
Pest control products in aerosol sprays can be directed to areas where fleas are hidden. Up to 90% of the flea population lives in the pet’s living area. It is important to kill fleas at the source or the insects that were not exterminated are likely to repeat its life cycle.
There are pest control products that you can use for safety measures to prevent fleas from returning. Below are some natural solutions to provide a healthy barrier between your household and biting fleas.
Natural pest control-
Bathe your pet regularly with mild soap and water not chemical shampoo. Use a flea comb when combing out your pet’s hair.
Fleas dislike the flavour of garlic, and yeast. Add a combination of brewer’s yeast and garlic to your pet’s food. Use about a teaspoon of brewer’s yeast daily for cats and small dogs, and a tablespoon full for a larger dog.
This measure can be doubled during peak flea season. Discontinue use if your pet develops an allergic reaction. Cat owners should be aware that raw garlic is toxic to cats.
Cedar repels many insects, one of the reasons cedar wood is so popular for closets, and bedroom furniture. Cedar based pest control products such as shampoo, oil, and pet mats are available for purchase.
Plant fleabane to repel fleas in the yard or garden. This is an annual growing up to 2 feet high with violet daisy flowers.
Trap fleas using a shallow pan half filled with soapy water. Fleas do not like soap. Place the pan on the floor and set a lamp to shine over the water. Fleas will be attracted to the heat, land in the water, and drown.
One of the best pest control methods you can use is to vacuum. Put flea powder in the vacuum cleaner bag to dust the fleas as you clean house. Place the used bag in the outdoor bin when you are finished sweeping the room for bugs.
Share these valuable tips about pest control- fleas with your family and friends who might be too embarrassed to admit they are also bothered by flea infestation.
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