Flea Identification & Prevention

What are fleas?

Fleas are tiny parasites, about the size of a speck of dirt, that feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals. They are dark, reddish-brown insects that have hard bodies. Adult fleas are wingless, have six legs, and two antennae. Their long, powerful back legs allow these pests to jump onto a host or out of danger. Fleas prefer to feed on animals, including our dogs and cats. However, if their animal hosts are not available, they will feed on people.

While these pests are often associated with pet owners, fleas can become a nuisance on any property, whether pets are present or not. The two most common types of fleas living in Honolulu are the dog flea and cat flea.

Are fleas dangerous?

Fleas are unwanted pests. Their bites are itchy and uncomfortable for both people and animals, and constant scratching may lead to secondary infections. Fleas are capable of spreading some pathogens that cause disease. The dog flea spreads flea tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum) to both people and animals. The ability to spread disease and parasites makes fleas not only unwanted pests but dangerous pests.

Another concern with fleas is pets that become heavily infested with these parasites may develop anemia, which will make them very weak and ill.

Why do I have a flea problem?

The year-round warm, tropical climate of Hawaii not only allows people to thrive but fleas as well. Fleas living in Honolulu can become a problem in any outdoor space where pets or wild animals come and go. Parks, playgrounds, campgrounds, dog parks, athletic fields, and our yards are all places fleas live successfully.

Once fleas jump onto you or your pets, they can easily be brought inside where they will continue their life cycle. Another way fleas get into homes is by coming inside on used furniture or rugs.

Fleas are prolific breeders, and if even a few gain access into your home, it can lead to a large scale infestation.

Where will I find fleas?

Fleas spend most of their life on their host. When not on an animal host, fleas choose damp, shady areas to hide in and wait for a new host to happen along that they can jump onto and use as a host.

Outdoors, fleas are found in tall grass, under leaves, and in sandy, damp soil. Inside of homes and other structures, fleas hide in rugs, the cracks in floors, behind baseboards, in upholstered furniture, and bedding.

How do I get rid of fleas?

If you have discovered fleas in your yard or home, the best way to get rid of them and prevent them from returning is to reach out to Able Pest Management, LLC. Our team will come to your aid and develop a pest control program that is customized to meet the unique needs of your home and family.

Our highly trained and experienced professionals are passionate about eliminating pests through our proven treatment methods. If you are looking for exceptional pest control for your Honolulu home or business, reach out to Able Pest Management today!

How can I prevent fleas in the future?

Keep fleas out of your Honolulu home and away from your family with the help of Able Pest Management and the following flea prevention tips:

• Treat pets year-round with a flea-preventative product under the guidance of a veterinarian.

• Routinely groom and bathe pets using a flea shampoo.

• Vacuum your home daily, especially in areas where your pets spend the most time.

• Regularly wash pet bedding.

• Do not buy used rugs or upholstered furniture for your home.

• If possible, keep pets off of upholstered furniture and beds.

• Keep your grass cut short.

• Cut back overgrown vegetation on your property.

• Deter wild animals from your property by getting rid of easy access to food sources; remove bird feeders, uneaten pet food, and place tight-fitting lids on trash cans and recycling bins.