Fleas in Buffalo Homes: Bites and What They Spread
Fleas are small, fast and hard to remove once they are in carpets and bedding. They also bite people and can spread germs and parasites. Here is how to deal with them.
How fleas get in
Fleas ride in on dogs and cats, on visiting animals and on wild animals that pass through yards, porches and crawl spaces. Adults on the pet are only a small part of the problem. Eggs, larvae and pupae live in carpets, bedding, upholstery and cracks in flooring.
What fleas can spread
Flea bites are itchy and can cause allergic reactions. Cat fleas can carry the bacteria that cause cat scratch disease and can pass tapeworm larvae to pets and, rarely, to small children who swallow a flea. Other flea borne diseases such as murine typhus are uncommon in New York.
Why they keep coming back
Pupae can wait in carpet for weeks and hatch when they sense a host. That is why people see fleas return after one cleaning. Lasting control needs the pet treated, the home treated and a follow up.
What to do first
Ask your veterinarian about a flea product for each pet, wash bedding in hot water, vacuum floors and furniture daily and empty the vacuum outside. Then book a professional treatment for carpets, baseboards and pet areas.
What we treat and what we do not
We treat fleas in homes. We do not treat mites, lice or scabies, which need a medical or other specialist. Call 716-347-5858 if you are not sure what you are seeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can fleas spread disease to people?
Cat fleas can carry the bacteria behind cat scratch disease and can pass tapeworm larvae. Most flea problems are itchy bites rather than serious illness.
How long does it take to get rid of fleas?
Several weeks, because eggs and pupae keep hatching after the first treatment. A follow up visit confirms they are gone.
Do you treat mites or lice?
No. Mites of any kind, lice and scabies are outside our service.
