Fleas
Fleas are small, dark-coloured, wingless parasites, growing up to 4 mm in length. Their flat, oval-shaped bodies allow them to jump impressive distances of over 33 cm, while their specialised tube-like mouthparts are perfectly adapted for feeding on the blood of their hosts.
Fleas feed exclusively on bird and mammal blood. While different flea species may have preferred hosts, all can bite humans. The most common species are typically found on dogs and cats, and their saliva contains compounds that prevent the bite from being felt immediately, often causing intense itching and irritation later. Adult fleas locate their hosts through movement, vibrations, and the scent of breath, making pets and humans alike susceptible.
Although fleas rarely feed solely on humans, their bites can still pose a significant health risk, particularly in homes with pets or infestations that are left untreated.
INFESTATION IDENTIFICATION
Excessive Scratching
If your dog or cat is scratching more than usual, it is often a clear sign that your pet may already be hosting fleas. As these pests crawl and feed on their blood, your pets will frequently lick, bite, or groom themselves in an attempt to relieve the irritation.
Black or White Flecks
If you’ve found strange white, brown or black flecks on your pet’s body or on their bedding, this might be another clear sign of a flea infestation. The white ones are flea eggs and the darker are known as flea dirt.
Loss of Fur
This can be a concerning indicator of a flea presence. Usually, flea bites cause a reaction to the pet’s skin. The allergic reaction is also known as alopecia, or hair loss. In such cases, you should take immediate action and consult with a vet for treatment.
Pale Gums
Another way to know if fleas have infested your pets is by checking if they have pale gums. They are a symptom of anaemia, due to the fact that fleas extract so much blood that the amount of new red blood cells produced is not sufficient. We strongly recommend to visit a vet ASAP.
Flea Bites
Another signal for a flea infestation is when not only your pets but also you become a victim of the flea bites. They can be felt as a small sting and then, the bitten spot turns into a red bruise on your skin. The bitten area will be really itchy and irritating and often can be confused with a mosquito bite.
You See Them!
If you’ve noticed these tiny jumpers around your home, it’s a strong indication of a flea infestation. Remember, you don’t need to own pets to encounter fleas, these parasites can easily hitch a ride on clothing or shoes while you’re out walking in the park, bringing them into your home.
Different species of Fleas commonly found in the UK
Dog Flea
Cat Flea
Human Flea
Heat Treatment
Heat treatment carefully raises the temperature in the affected areas of your property using large, purpose-built heaters. These are carefully monitored whilst the heat permeates all nooks and crannies, leaving fleas nowhere to hide.
​
Heat treatment is effective at all stages of flea development, ensuring eggs and larvae are also destroyed.
