Fleas

Fleas are tiny, blood-sucking pests that commonly infest homes, pets, and wildlife across the United States. Known for their itchy bites, fleas can cause discomfort for both humans and animals and may even transmit diseases. This guide provides practical tips to eliminate fleas and prevent future infestations, helping you protect your home and loved ones.

 
Common Flea Species

Here are some of the most common flea species found across households in the United States.

Species List
  • Cat Flea
    Cat Flea
  • Dog Flea
    Dog Flea
  • Sticktight Flea
    Sticktight Flea
 
How To Identify Flea

Antennae: Short and not easily visible without magnification.

Size: Tiny, measuring about 1–3 mm in length.

Body Shape: Small, flat, and narrow body adapted for moving through fur or hair.

Color: Reddish-brown or dark brown, often shiny.

Legs: Six legs, with powerful hind legs designed for jumping great distances relative to their size.

Movement: Known for quick, erratic jumps rather than crawling or flying.

Cat Flea Model

You can use the following model to help you identify a cat flea .

Cat Flea
 
Dangers Fleas Pose

Here are some of the dangers fleas infestations can pose.

Dangers and Hazards

Different species of fleas may pose one or many of the following hazards:

  • Disease
    Disease
  • Bites
    Bites
  • Allergic Reactions
    Allergic Reactions
  • Parasites
    Parasites
  • Pet Risks
    Pet Risks
 
How to Get Rid of Fleas

Apply any of the following treatment steps that are relevant to your flea issues.

Treatment Steps
  • Maintain Landscaping
    Maintain Landscaping

    Keep your lawn trimmed and remove debris around your home. Fleas thrive in tall grass and cluttered areas, so maintaining your landscaping reduces places where fleas can hide and breed. Keeping your yard clean also reduces the chance of fleas entering your home.

  • Vacuum Thoroughly
    Vacuum Thoroughly

    Vacuum carpets, rugs, furniture, and pet bedding regularly to remove fleas, eggs, and larvae. Pay extra attention to areas where pets spend time. After vacuuming, dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the canister to prevent fleas from escaping back into your home.

  • Wash Clothes
    Wash Clothes

    Wash clothing, pet bedding, and blankets regularly in hot water to kill any fleas, eggs, or larvae. Fleas can live in fabrics, so washing your bedding and clothing helps eliminate these pests from the environment.

  • Treat Problem Areas Outside
    Treat Problem Areas Outside

    Fleas can be found in the yard, especially in shaded areas or places where pets frequent. Treat the exterior of your home, including lawns, patios, and any areas where pets spend time, to eliminate flea populations before they enter your home.

  • Treat Problem Areas Inside
    Treat Problem Areas Inside

    Treat areas inside the home, especially pet bedding, carpets, and furniture. Focus on high-traffic areas where fleas are likely to hide. Regular flea treatments, along with thorough cleaning, will reduce the flea population inside your home.

  • Treat Pets With Flea Medication
    Treat Pets With Flea Medication

    Fleas often travel on pets, so it’s important to treat them with veterinarian-recommended flea medications. These treatments kill fleas on your pets and prevent future infestations, reducing the risk of bringing fleas into your home.

 
FAQ

Get more information about fleas here.

  • Why do flea infestations happen?

    Fleas are typically brought into homes by pets, especially dogs and cats. They can also enter through open windows or doors. Once inside, they breed and thrive in areas where pets rest, leading to an infestation if not controlled.

  • Are fleas dangerous?

    Fleas can pose health risks by transmitting diseases such as the plague or typhus. They can also cause allergic reactions and irritation from their bites. Pets and humans alike can be affected by flea infestations, leading to discomfort and potential health concerns.

  • Do fleas bite?

    Yes, fleas bite humans and animals to feed on blood. Their bites can cause itching, swelling, and irritation. Some people and pets may have allergic reactions to flea bites, leading to more severe itching and discomfort.

  • How can I prevent future flea issues?

    Maintain landscaping by trimming grass and removing debris. Regularly vacuum and wash bedding and clothing. Use flea treatments for pets and treat your home’s interior and exterior. NatureTek products help prevent fleas by creating a barrier around your home to keep them out.

  • Does NatureTek work on fleas?

    Yes, NatureTek is effective against fleas. It creates a protective barrier around your home and yard, preventing fleas from entering and helping to reduce their activity inside your home. Regular treatment ensures long-term protection from flea infestations.

 
Best Product for Fleas

The best product for solving flea issues is the NatureTek Pro Kit. The products included in that treatment have the residual and transfer effects necessary for long-term control of fleas.

NatureTek Pro Kit

Safe, Effective, Affordable, & No-Commitment