Signs of a Flea or Tick Infestation

Fleas and ticks are two parasitic pests that can be a big nuisance for any pet owner or otherwise. In addition to being a pain to deal with, these insects can be dangerous for pets and humans alike. To prevent an infestation, it’s important to know how to look for the signs of ticks or fleas in your home. Some of the main signs include odd pet behavior and seeing the tiny insects themselves.

At Garrie Pest Control, we know how distressing it can be to deal with either of these pests. Read on to learn how to recognize the signs of a flea or tick infestation in your Peekskill NY home.

Signs of Fleas

Fleas may be tiny, but they’re not so small that you cannot see them. Some of the main signs of fleas to keep your eyes peeled for include:

• Seeing actual adult fleas on your pets, which are often grouped together and hidden in the hind legs, head, or neck.
• If your pet has fleas, they may exhibit strange behavior including scratching, hair loss, restlessness, and bumps on their skin.
• Flea dirt can also occasionally be seen—these feces look like small specks of black pepper.
• Flea eggs can easily fall off and become hidden in rugs, carpets, bedding, and gaps in floorboards. Flea eggs are very small, about 0.5 mm long, oval, and white.

How to Check for Fleas and Ticks

Signs of ticks often appear when tick bites have occurred. When they’ve found a host to feed on, ticks use their piercing mouthparts to first inject an anesthetic, which is why most people don’t feel the bite of a tick. As the tick fills with blood, it will eventually fall off its host. If a tick is found before it feeds, it can be removed with tweezers. Signs of tick bites include the telltale red bull’s eye rash around the spot of the bite. While most bites are harmless, they can transmit dangerous diseases and should always be treated by a medical professional.

Signs You Need Flea and Tick Infestation Removal

If you are dealing with endless tick or flea problems, it’s time to call in the experts. It can be very difficult to find signs of these parasitic pests until an infestation has occurred. A professional flea and tick exterminator can help look for signs of these pests in your home. For flea and tick services, contact the team at Garrie Pest Control!