Signs of a flea infestation in your home

Does your cat or dog look uncomfortable, constantly scratching or biting their fur? If your pet's discomfort seems intense, it might not be a simple skin irritation; fleas could be the culprits. But what do fleas on dogs and cats actually look like, and how can you identify them before seeing the veterinarian? Here are some ways to help prevent and check if you have fleas in your home.

Signs of fleas

Identifying fleas in your home early can make a significant difference in controlling the infestation. Fleas go through several life stages, from egg to larva, then pupa, and finally adult, so knowing where and what to look for can help you detect their presence.

If you are concerned about fleas, you can look for these signs:

• Can you see fleas crawling on your pet’s coat? They are normally a reddish brown color and about 2mm long.
• Check the hindquarters of your dog or the head and neck of your cat. These are the areas that are targeted and where you might see signs of flea activity.
• Carefully look at your pet’s skin for fine black droppings. This is ‘flea dirt’ or adult flea feces and looks like ground black pepper. A good way to spot it is to use a flea comb over a sheet of white paper, which makes it easier to see the small black specks.
• Another sign of a problem is flea dirt on pet bedding, carpets or rugs.

If you have spotted any of these signs call Ehrlich free at 800-837-5520 and we’ll call you back within 24 hours (Monday – Friday) to arrange an appointment.

Flea eggs and larvae around the house

Flea eggs and larvae are often hidden in cozy spots throughout your home. Female fleas lay tiny, oval-shaped eggs (about 0.5 mm long) on your pet’s body, but these eggs don’t stay there; they easily fall off and settle into the places your pets frequent, like bedding, carpets, and furniture crevices. Due to their white color, flea eggs blend into rough surfaces, making them almost impossible to see.

Flea larvae, small and whitish, also tend to burrow deep within carpets, blankets, and upholstery, avoiding light as they develop. Regularly checking these areas can help you identify the early stages of an infestation before adult fleas start causing more noticeable issues.

Spotting adult fleas in your environment

Adult fleas are tiny, reddish-brown insects with oval-shaped bodies, often visible on your pet’s fur or around your home. Adult fleas may also be seen on carpets, pet bedding, or furniture. If you notice small, fast-moving bugs or see small, black specks (flea dirt or flea feces), there’s a good chance fleas have moved in. Flea dirt turns red when dampened with soapy water due to the blood it contains.

Sometimes, it’s easy to think you’ve got rid of fleas in your home when you haven’t. This is because flea eggs are very difficult to spot.

Signs of fleas on your pets

When infested with fleas, your pets may show visible and behavioral signs, such as excessive scratching, biting, or irritation on their skin. Paying attention to these signs can help catch a flea problem early on, minimizing your pet’s discomfort. However, it's always best to consult your veterinarian if you are worried about fleas on your pet. Before attempting any DIY treatments, seek their professional advice to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the chosen solution.

Excessive scratching, biting, and licking

If your pet is frequently scratching, biting, or licking their fur, this may be an indicator of fleas. Flea bites release flea saliva, which can cause an itchy allergic reaction in pets. Pets often exhibit this behavior in response to intense itchiness, especially around areas like the tail, back, and belly.

Visible signs: flea dirt, eggs, and hair loss

Flea dirt, which resembles tiny black specks, is one of the most common signs of a flea infestation. Check your pet’s fur by parting it and looking for flea dirt on their skin, especially around the neck and tail. Additionally, you may notice small white flea eggs attached to their fur. Fleas can also lead to hair loss as your pet scratches and bites the affected areas, trying to find relief.

Skin symptoms: redness, irritation, and flea bite dermatitis

Flea bites can lead to skin irritation, including redness, inflammation, and sometimes sores. Some pets may suffer from flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), an allergic reaction caused by flea saliva. This condition can cause intense itching, red patches, and scabs on your pet’s skin. Anti-itch creams and over-the-counter treatments may offer some relief, but a veterinarian visit is recommended if symptoms persist.

Checking for anemia: pale gums

Severe flea infestations can cause blood loss, leading to anemia in pets. One of the telltale signs of anemia is pale gums. Gently lift your pet’s lip to check their gums; healthy gums should be pink, whereas pale gums indicate a need for immediate veterinary care. Anemia can be especially dangerous for small pets or young animals, as flea infestations can quickly impact their health.

Worried that your pet has fleas? See our article on flea control for cats and dogs.

How do fleas enter your home?

Fleas are persistent parasites that can enter your home in several ways. Pets are the primary carriers, but fleas can also hitch a ride on humans. Once inside, fleas can multiply rapidly, as the female flea can lay up to 50 eggs daily. Fleas thrive year-round in warm environments, making homes a prime spot for an infestation.

Preventing flea infestations

Prevention is key to keeping fleas out of your home and away from your pets. Here are some tips to help prevent flea infestations:

• Regular grooming and flea collars: Brush your pet’s fur regularly and use flea collars as a preventive measure. Flea collars release chemicals that repel fleas, keeping them away from your pet.
• Wash bedding in hot water: Laundering pet bedding and blankets in hot water can kill flea eggs and larvae. Be sure to wash these items at least once a week during flea season.
• Frequent vacuuming: Flea eggs, larvae, and pupae can hide in carpets and furniture. Vacuum your floors and upholstery regularly to reduce the chances of fleas spreading.
• Yard maintenance: Fleas can also live in your yard, particularly in shaded areas. Keeping your yard trimmed and free of debris can help minimize outdoor flea habitats, making it harder for fleas to latch onto pets.

Ehrlich’s professional flea treatment services

Our flea exterminators are often the most effective solution for severe flea infestations. Ehrlich’s flea treatment services provide comprehensive pest management that targets fleas at all life cycle stages, from eggs and larvae to adults. Our flea experts use specialized treatments that eliminate fleas while ensuring the safety of your pets and family.
Professional flea treatment service is often faster and more thorough than DIY methods, especially if the infestation has spread throughout your home. We provide targeted treatment and prevention tips to help ensure fleas don’t return.

Next steps

Frequently asked questions