Natural Flea Control in Virginia
There are more than 2,000 species of fleas worldwide, but thankfully there are only a handful in Virginia that are cause for concern. These are the cat flea, dog flea, human flea, and Oriental rat flea. All fleas have a preferred host or hosts, but will feed on any warm-blooded animal if their host has died or left the area.
Fleas will begin to die within 10 days if they're stuck outdoors unprotected when temperatures stay below 46°F, so they survive cold weather either by living on their host or in the den or nest of their host, or by invading our homes or other warm structures. Even in the middle of winter, they can be quickly reintroduced to an area when they drop off of a host as it's passing through.
Flea-Borne Diseases
Bubonic plague
Cat scratch fever
Murine typhus
Tungiasis
Tularemia
Tips to Reduce Fleas &
Flea Bites
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Maintain lawn areas and keep foliage trimmed back to allow for more sunlight.
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Keep pets in a confined area or on a leash when outdoors.
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Wear long socks and pants if weather permits.
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Keep pets on a treatment program from a veterinarian.
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Consider wildlife management to reduce flea hosts such as squirrels, rabbits, and other small animals.
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Hire Essential Pest for natural flea control services.
Did You Know?
Fleas have entertained more people than any other parasite known to man. In the late 1500's, watchmakers and jewelers showcased their superior craftsmanship by attaching a miniature chain and leash to a flea.
The flea's jumping power was then harnessed and turned into the flea circus phenomenon in the early 1800's, which is still enjoyed by many to this day. Although fleas can’t be taught anything except not to jump, they can be manipulated by heat, wind, repellants, and vibrations, or fastened to an object in order to perform tasks like tightrope walking, dancing, cart pulling, wheel spinning, and other fascinating feats. If you hear of a flea circus coming to a town near you, you may want to hop to it and enjoy!