Fleas in Florida

Florida Flea Facts

There are over 250 different flea species here in the United States. But the one most often causing our pets and even us to itch and scratch like crazy is the “Cat Flea”.

Fleas are parasites that feed on blood. Here’s the usual scenario. Fleas get on your pet from the outdoors. Fleas lay eggs on your pet. These eggs are not sticky so they fall off in couches and carpets and beds and anywhere else your pet goes. In a few days these eggs hatch into larvae. These larvae eventually become adult biting fleas and you have an infestation on your hands. So what do you do? Well you could “bomb” the house with a common aerosol. But there is a catch. These bombs will kill adult fleas, but the larvae embedded deep in your carpets and furniture are usually unharmed and will eventually hatch into new adults. Once fleas have infested your home, it is best to call in a professional exterminator. Of course, the best bet is to make sure your pets remain flea free. There are many products on the market that are very reliable. But don’t go with one of those ultrasonic collars. One University of Florida researcher said his studies and others conducted around the world prove these things are just a waste of money.