How can you tell if your house has fleas?

Answered by Randy McIntyre

To determine if your house has fleas, there are several signs you can look out for. These signs include observing fleas hopping on your drapery, carpet, or furniture, noticing multiple dot-like insects in your pet’s fur, and observing your pets scratching, licking, or biting their fur excessively.

One of the most obvious signs of a flea infestation is actually seeing the fleas themselves. Fleas are small, wingless insects that are typically dark brown or black in color. They are about 1/8 inch in length and have a slender, flattened body. Fleas are excellent jumpers and can easily hop onto drapes, carpets, or furniture. If you notice tiny insects jumping around in these areas, it is likely that you have a flea problem.

Another sign of fleas is finding multiple dot-like insects in your pet’s fur. Fleas are parasites that feed on the blood of mammals, including dogs and cats. They are often found in the fur of pets, especially around the neck, back, and tail areas. If you examine your pet’s fur and notice small, dark insects moving around or clustered together, it is a strong indication of fleas.

In addition to seeing the fleas themselves, you may also notice your pets exhibiting certain behaviors that could indicate a flea infestation. Pets infested with fleas will often scratch, lick, or bite their fur excessively. This is because fleas bite and feed on their blood, causing irritation and discomfort. If you observe your pets constantly scratching or biting at their fur, particularly in the areas where fleas are commonly found, it is likely that they have fleas.

It is important to note that fleas are not only a nuisance to pets but can also infest your home. Adult fleas lay their eggs in the fur of animals, but these eggs can easily fall off and end up in carpets, bedding, and furniture. Flea eggs are tiny, white, and difficult to see with the naked eye. However, if you notice small black specks or “flea dirt” in your pet’s bedding or on your furniture, it is a clear indication of a flea infestation.

If you observe fleas hopping on your drapery, carpet, or furniture, notice multiple dot-like insects in your pet’s fur, or observe your pets excessively scratching, licking, or biting their fur, it is likely that your house has a flea infestation. It is important to take immediate action to eliminate the fleas and prevent further infestation. Consulting a professional pest control service or using flea treatments recommended by veterinarians can help effectively address the problem.