How To Keep Fleas Out Of Your Yard, According To Experts

03.05.2024 - 14:26 / southernliving.com / Arricca Elin SanSone

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Fleas are a year-round problem in the South, both indoors and out. “They’re carried into your yard by wildlife such as squirrels, raccoons, opossums, mice, and deer,” says Eric Benson, PhD, professor emeritus and extension entomologist withClemson University. “Because you can’t control what’s wandering through, fleas are constantly reintroduced to your yard.”

There are more than 300 species of fleas in the U.S., but the one that’s the biggest problem is the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), which affects both cats and dogs. In fact, one study showed thatmore than 130 species of wildlife harbored cat fleas. The dog flea (Ctenocephalides canis) ismuch less common or problematic in the U.S… Both types are wingless, black-brown to reddish-brown, and about 1/8-inch long.

While you already know flea bites can make your pet miserable, some pets also suffer fromflea allergy dermatitis, which results in intense itching and hot spots that cause them to be more vulnerable to infections. You’re fair game, too: “Although fleas prefer animals, they’ll bite people if no other host is available,” says Wizzie Brown, extension program specialist atTexas A&M Agrilife. “Some people actually have intense reactions with red, itchy bumps.”

Fleas also can transmittyphus, and the rare case ofplague, to people. Fleaborne parasites such astapeworm also can spread to people, if they accidentally ingest an infected flea; young kids, who spend time on the floor where fleas may be found indoors, are at higher risk, says Benson.

• Eric Benson, PhD., is professor emeritus and extension entomologist with Clemson University.
• Wizzie Brown is