Fleas are a species of external parasites or endoparasites which survive by feeding on the blood of warm-blooded hosts such as dogs and cats. Causing skin irritation, discomfort, hair-loss and in severe cases, anemia, as well as carrying the risk of transmitting tapeworm to your pet, an adult flea is just a few millimeters in length but can cause numerous problems.

Where Are Fleas Found In The USA?

Until your pet becomes infected by fleas for the first time, you could be forgiven for thinking that this parasite is not particularly widespread. In fact, flea infestation is one of the most common problems faced by pet owners, not only in the USA, but throughout the entire world. Although fleas are found in every State, there are some regions of the nation which experience greater problems with this parasite than others. Generally, the warmer and more humid the climate, the more likely it is that fleas will thrive in that area. That means that areas such as the Rocky Mountain States, which tend to be very dry have less flea problems, whereas in the Southern States, where the climate is mild year-round, fleas can be a major issue. In 2012, Banfield Pet Hospital in Birmingham released data naming the states with the highest number of dog flea cases as Florida, South Carolina, Alabama, Oregon & Louisiana, Washington, Georgia and Texas.

What is Flea Season?

In the past, you might have heard pet-owners talking (and complaining!) about flea season. Flea season is not at a specific time of year or season, and is dictated by suitable temperatures and humidity. Fleas are most active in temperatures of between 70-85" with a humidity level of 80%. In optimum conditions like these, a female flea can lay up to 50 eggs each day. With each egg growing to a mature adult in 21 days, a huge population can develop shockingly quick. In most areas of the USA, this so-called flea season lasts from approximately March or April to November or December. When the temperature drops, adult fleas die off, while flea eggs remain dormant until the conditions are more suitable for hatching. However, a tendency to keep our homes warmer throughout the year has meant that fleas don't always die off in the winter. This means that as pet owners, we all need to be on the ball and using preventative treatments against fleas, rather than waiting for an infestation before we start flea control

What Can You Do To Stop Fleas?

• Keeping your pets free from fleas means taking a number of precautions and following a regular flea control plan
• Apply Frontline Plus to your dogs and cats to eliminate fleas within 12 hours. Repeat treatment with Frontline Plus every month for ongoing protection.
• Use Frontline Plus on all of your household pets, not just the pet which you have seen fleas on.
• Vacuum your carpets, rugs and floorboards to remove mature fleas and flea eggs from your home. You should also wash your pet's bedding to reduce the chances of re-infestation.