You hear scratching in the walls at night, and see droppings around your baseboards. You’ve got a rodent problem. But the bad news doesn’t stop there. Those unwelcome furry guests might also be bringing in fleas.
Here at Masters Pest Control, we’re all too familiar with the double whammy of rodents and fleas in homes across the NY, NJ, and PA Tristate area. Let’s look at how these tiny terrors team up and what you can do to stop them.
How Rodents Bring Fleas Inside
Our backyards are full of potential flea hideouts – grass, shrubs, and trees. These tiny bloodsuckers are constantly on the lookout for a warm-blooded meal, and rodents are a perfect target. Once on a rodent, fleas will stay put for a while but can also jump or crawl off at any time.
Learn more about health threats posed by rodents here.
From Stowaway to Super Spreader
Once inside, fleas are on a mission: find a place to hide and reproduce. Carpets, furniture cracks, bedding, even your pet’s fur – all become potential flea havens. The longer they’re around, the more eggs female fleas lay. Studies show that one female flea can lead to a population of over 20,000 in just two months!
Signs of Rodent Fleas
If you’re experiencing unexplained itchy bites, seeing small red bumps on your skin or your pet’s fur, it could be a sign of a flea infestation. Other signs of rodent fleas include:
- Spotting live fleas or flea dirt (tiny black specks that look like pepper) on your pets or around your home.
- Seeing signs of a rodent infestation, like droppings, gnaw marks, or grease trails.
How to Prevent Rodent Fleas
The good news is, with some proactive measures, you can keep these bloodthirsty hitchhikers out of your home. Here are some top tips:
- Seal up entry points: Even a tiny hole can be an invitation for a rodent (and their fleas). Inspect your foundation, walls, and pipes for any gaps, and seal them up with caulk or steel wool.
- Store food properly: Don’t give rodents a reason to visit your kitchen! Use airtight containers for food and pet food, and swap cardboard boxes for plastic storage bins. Keep firewood at least 20 feet away from your house.
- Cleanliness is key: A clean home is a less inviting one for rodents looking for food, water, or shelter. Regularly clean your home, including patios and garages.
- Simple test for flea identification: Contact Masters Pest Control to learn how to do a simple test that can help identify fleas within a structure.
Masters Pest Control: Your Tristate Area Rodent and Flea Experts
If you suspect a rodent infestation or flea problem, don’t try to tackle it alone. At Masters Pest Control, we have the experience and expertise to safely and effectively eliminate both rodents and fleas from your home. Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you reclaim your home from these unwelcome guests!