Fleas

The most common types of flea are cat fleas and dog fleas. Human fleas are becoming increasingly rare. They are external parasites, living off the blood of mammals and birds. Fleas are 1.5 to 3.3 mm long, agile and usually dark coloured.

Flea

Where do fleas come from?

Adult fleas live as parasites on warm-blooded mammals. Eggs are laid in batches of around 20, usually on the host. Therefore, areas where the host rests and sleeps becomes one of the primary habitats for eggs and developing fleas. Cat fleas cause most infestations, probably because of the large number of domesticated pets now kept, and particular attention should be paid to cleaning their bedding. Remember, if your cat has fleas, there could be as many as ten times that number in other parts of the house. Wall to wall carpeting, bedding and central heating in a home create ideal conditions in which flea larvae can develop.

Do fleas do any harm?

In the UK, fleas are not often responsible for transmitting disease. However, they are not simply a source of annoyance. Some people and animals suffer allergic reactions to flea saliva resulting in rashes. Flea bites generally result in a slightly-raised swollen itching spot with a single puncture point at the centre. The bites often appear in clusters or lines of two bites, and can remain itchy and inflamed for up to several weeks afterwards. Although not all people are affected by flea bites, they can cause severe irritation. Anti-itch creams such as antihistaminics have been shown to be effective for itching.

How can I prevent an infestation?

If you keep pets, no matter how careful you are, there is always the possibility that your animal will get fleas. Regular washing and cleaning of your pet's bedding will also help prevent infestation. Another good preventative measure is to vacuum regularly.

How do I know if I have fleas in my home?

• if your pet starts scratching more than usual
• if you find bites on your body (a tiny dark red spot surrounded by a reddened area) generally below the knee
• actual sightings of fleas in your home, on yourself or on your pets 

How do I get rid of them?

You can treat minor infestations yourself. Suitable insecticides can be found at your veterinary surgery, as opposed to pet stores, as the active ingredients found in pet shop bought treatments may not be as strong and therefore not as effective. These insecticides can be used to treat bedding, carpets, curtains, sofas and chairs. Please follow the instructions given with the product. A good vacuuming two weeks after treating soft furnishings will help to remove any remains of the fleas. You should wash and, if possible, tumble dry pet bedding. Ideally we would recommend you seek professional help. Exeter City Council's Pest Control Officer can treat minor and severe infestations in your home.

Charges

Exeter City Council charge the following for treatment of a flea infestation:

Charges are £50.00 for the first room and £20.00 for every additional room

 Payment can be made by the following, on completion of the treatment:

• cash or cheque (made payable to Exeter City Council)
• debit or credit card over the telephone
• Where an account is rendered, an additional charge of £17.00 is levied

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