When Is Flea Season in North Carolina? | Clint Miller Exterminating

In order to properly prevent and get rid of fleas, you first have to understand them and know when flea season is in North Carolina. We’ll help you understand these itch-inducing pests and what to do when you suspect fleas in your home.

 

Understanding the Flea

Fleas are small, flightless insects that are known for feeding on human and animal blood. Most pet owners are aware of fleas, as it is common for fleas to hide within dogs’ and cats’ fur, causing itching and skin irritation. While they cannot fly, they can jump—some being able to jump nearly a foot or more, which is nearly 100x their own body size.

Fleas are most easily spotted by inspecting your pet’s fur for small, dark spots close to their skin. They can move away while you’re searching, but they’re sometimes more easily spotted when they jump.

When Is Flea Season in North Carolina?

Fleas are most active when it is warmer outside, and the humidity is high (their ideal is anywhere between 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and about 90% humidity). For this reason, the Southeast is a hot spot for flea activity, especially in the warmer months. In North Carolina, our flea season is usually between April and November, with a spike of activity in the summer and fall months. However, if fleas are already inside the house during the winter, these pests can live all year round.

Are Fleas Dangerous to Pets?

If your pets have fleas, you may notice that they’re uncomfortable. Typical signs include your pet scratching or biting themselves more frequently to scratch an itch. But fleas can do more harm than just cause an itch—they can also spread disease, including tapeworms, cat scratch fever, and even anemia or other deficiencies from blood loss. What started as an itch can quickly become a costly vet bill for your beloved pets.

Are Fleas Dangerous to Humans?

The danger of fleas goes beyond just your pets. While most fleas do not transfer diseases to us, the ones most commonly found on our pets or in our forests can. In fact, typhus is commonly spread to humans due to a flea bite. And like our pets, we can be impacted by tapeworms and cat scratch fever. Even the Bubonic plague (which is still around today, although much less common and a lot more treatable) can be caused by fleas.

Are Fleas a Risk if I Don’t Have Pets?

Yes, even if you don’t have pets, you could end up dealing with fleas. This is because local wildlife can carry fleas and bring them to your property. Squirrels, mice, rats, rabbits, and deer are all carriers of fleas. If they get close (or even in) to your home, you may end up with a secondary issue of fleas and ticks.

How to Prevent Fleas

Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent fleas from entering your home or bothering your family and pets. The best ways to prevent fleas include:

• Wash and treat your pets with a flea solution. Talk to your vet to see what solutions work best for your area.
• Vacuum and clean your house regularly, especially in the summer and fall months.
• Don’t attract wildlife close to your home. For example, bird and squirrel feeders should be far enough away so that fleas can’t jump from them into your home.
• Wash sheets and bedding regularly, especially any camping or outdoor blankets.
• Invest in regular flea pest control, like our recurring gold plan.

Keep You & Your Pets Itch-Free with Clint Miller Exterminating

Your summer activities don’t have to include itchy pets afterwards. At Clint Miller Exterminating, we help to eliminate flea populations so that you can enjoy your home worry-free. Our flea pest control solutions are safe for both your beloved pets and family, providing effective care without putting the ones you love most at risk. Ready to get rid of these jumping invaders from your home? Get in touch with our team to receive a free quote!