Fleas can enter buildings in a number of ways – even if you don’t have pets.
Contrary to popular belief, cats and dogs aren’t entirely to blame for flea infestations.
These pests can parasite many animals including chickens, rabbits, squirrels, rats, ferrets, mice and even humans.
What’s more, 95% of the flea population in the home is actually found within carpets and soft furnishings.
Common signs to look out for in your pets include: Droppings or flea dirt in fur, Allergic dermatitis, Excessive scratching, licking or biting at skin, Hair loss, Scabs and hot spots, Pale gums, Tapeworms.
If you suspect you have an insect infestation in your home, there are a couple of effective tests you can carry out.
Put on a pair of long white cotton socks and walk around your house.
Shuffle your feet to create warmth on the floor and linger in spots you suspect they’re inhabiting.
If you do have a flea infestation, you will notice brown or black specs on your socks.
If you’re unsure whether you’re noticing flea dirt or normal dirt, rub the area with a moistened white towel.
If it’s flea dirt, it will appear as tiny red streaks.