Fleas

Life Cycle

Normally cat or dog fleas as human fleas are rare now except in third-world countries. They can be brought in by pets, people, second-hand carpets etc. The adults may feed on different animal sources but larvae require conditions offered by wall-to-wall carpeting and central heating. Eggs are laid on carpets or fabrics and hatch into larvae then pupate. If conditions are favourable e.g. vibration and warmth, they will hatch into adults. This takes about 2 weeks in mild weather. Eggs can lie dormant for up to 18 months, usually in empty properties.

Treatment

The treatment involves the property being sprayed or dusted with a broad-spectrum residual insecticide.

If we are to carry out a treatment please clear the floor as much as possible, vacuum up before we visit and empty the vacuum cleaner outside and place the contents in a bin-bag, seal and put outside (preferably in a bin). You must not vacuum for 2 weeks afterwards. Tenants can remain in the house but cannot touch treated areas until dry, so pets and children must be kept out of contact with wet treated areas. Pets must be put on an effective flea programme available over the counter or from vets. Customers must accept during the 2 weeks they may still get the odd bite and this is young adults, hatching out and possibly biting before being affected by pesticide.

See the 'Frequently Asked Questions' section on this page for further information.