No one likes fleas. You hardly notice their presence unless you feel an itch. These insects feed on the blood of their hosts. They mostly thrive on animals, but in human, fleas only bite and leave.
You need various ways to get rid of fleas and most importantly, the quickest method possible. Insecticides happen to make your work easier especially if you are dealing with an infestation.
We shall help you identify why you need insecticides for fleas and highlight the best choices. Although recommended products have benefits, they also possess some limitations. Our discussion will also contain how fleas get in your house and the solution to your problem as well.
A flea is a flightless insect that thrives on host blood. The insect is common on animal bodies than human. However, it can bite you and leave you with a slight sting, itch, or a burning sensation depending on your skin type.
People have many reasons, and one of them includes disease prevention. Some fleas like Chigoe Flea bites people with intent to harm. Ideally, it can cause an infection which if left untreated, can lead to amputation. Cat fleas, on the other hand, can result in various diseases including plague.
You need an insecticide to keep your pet alive and protect it from being anemic. If you leave your cat or dog at the mercy of these insects, their red blood cells will decrease, and if the condition remains unchecked, the pet dies. You can also suffer from Typhus from a flea bite. Some of the discomfort you might experience includes fever, body aches, and headache. You can also have nausea.
How Do They Get In Your House?
Fleas enjoy dark places, and if they remain undisturbed, they can live with you for 100 days (you being their meal). You can carry a flea into your home, and if it is a female, it will lay eggs hours later after their first blood meal. Before you know it, you have a flea colony living in your house. They can also come via pets and most especially dogs.
What kind of fleas should you look out for?
The common kind – This category contains the regular fleas that attack animals and people. The most recognized are dog and cat fleas. Hogs also have a common species as well as goats, rats, and other wild animals.
Sand fleas – These develop after flea-infested animals drop them as eggs or adults.
Which Pesticides Should You Use?
At low concentrations, the insecticide acts quickly by knocking down fleas at a high rate. Treatment should be carried out as directed by manufacturers. Preparations should be done with caution. When applying, target the insects’ crawling spaces and make sure you treat the surfaces until wet.
Before treatment, vacuum or dust your carpets and furniture thoroughly. Spray the insecticide evenly and ensure corners and small spaces receive the same treatment. Avoid soaking your furniture.
Users must wear protective clothing including a respirator. The chances of breathing in Permethrin during spray treatments are high. Pay extra attention to your pet’s favorite spot and do not forget under cushions.
For your dog’s bedding, apply the insecticide and replace the beddings. If you maintain the old ones, fleas will multiply and even become resistant to treatment. Most flea infestation comes from pets. Ensure their frequent areas of playing and sleeping are regularly cleaned and treated. More so, treat cats and dogs frequently with the recommended pesticides for animals. Do not ignore the application instructions given by manufacturers and welfare agencies.
The insecticide has a broad spectrum when it comes to treatment. It is considered toxic to an insect’s nervous system and, therefore, you can be guaranteed positive results. In large amounts, Imidacloprid is not friendly. It can affect your nervous system as well. Learn how to use it before trying its contents.
Malathion is an active ingredient used in household insecticides to control fleas and other insects. You can purchase it as ready to use powder or spray and treat your pets. The recommended percentage of malathion in flea treatment is 5. For sprays, the concentration should be 0.5%.
While applying, its dust should be used a pound for every 40 square feet. For dog kennels or pet quarter, use one or two pounds of every 1000 square feet. If you have a poultry house or dairy bans, treat them with malathion. Spray or dust every corner and do not leave any spot without the treatment. Note that, Malathion comes with different labels. Use a product that is recommended under animal flea control.
The insecticide is well known for controlling a wide range of insect. Among them include fleas, mosquitoes, and lice among others. Most household compounds contain Pyrethrin. It is widely used on dogs and cats for more than a century. Based on research, the insecticide comes from natural extracts.
Compared to permethrin, pyrethrin breaks down quickly, and it is not synthetic. It affects an insect brain path by disrupting sodium flow to the nerves. Scholars identify more than five Pyrethrins found in flea and tick products.
Remember that you can be exposed to Pyrethrin poisoning through contact, ingestion, and inhaling. It can occur while spraying or dusting treatment to infested regions. If you accidentally consume Pyrethrin, some of the symptoms you might experience include running nose, vomiting, and coughing. You might also have difficulties breathing and diarrhea. Eye exposure can cause irritation and blurred vision. A burning sensation can also occur as well as tearing and itchiness.
For adult fleas, purchase Nitenyram because it has a quick knockout action. It messes with the insect’s neural transmissions thus making it impossible to coordinate movements. The product is not safe for human consumption. It produces adverse effects that can trigger severe conditions. Use the recommended dosage on cats and dogs. Do not exceed the labeled amount.
Pyrethroid is similar to pyrethrin, but it is synthetic. If you purchase pyrethroid-based insecticides, they will help you repel or kill fleas. Some of the products you may come across include Active Care Spot On for cats, K9 Advantix, and Etofenprox. Not all pyrethroids are friendly to cats. You should, therefore, check the labels before you poison your pet. If the instructions suggest its safe for cats, buy it. Otherwise, look for a suitable option.
Preparation for application should be carried out as mentioned above. Clean your residence and remove toys, pets, and children within the treatment region. Wear protective clothing as pyrethroids can be hazardous in large volumes. Remember, it attacks an insect’s nervous system and kills it eventually.
You can find Fipronil in Fripotol Plus Flea and Tick Control product. It works explicitly on dogs to eliminate fleas and repel them as well. In insects, the compound disrupts chlorine-flow through cells to the nervous system which then triggers paralysis and finally death.
Once again, you should check these products’ label for safety. If they do not indicate ‘safe for dogs or cats,’ walk away. Try Frontline Plus as well because like other Fipronil-based products, it does offer excellent protection against fleas.
The insecticide is Permethrin-based with lasting effects and an increased knockdown rate. Reports suggest that the product will re-enter the United States’ markets in 2019. Dragnet has a low scent ideal for different environments. The insecticide can be applied in all structures including food establishment. It has been tested and approved for flea control management system. Dragnet’s best feature is its ability to limit flea populations by preventing reproduction and egg lay. When combined with specific compounds, the insecticide eliminates not only the young ones but also the adult fleas.
Dragnet’s application procedure is the same as that of Permethrin. You should proceed with caution though because, in excess, the insecticide is harmful. Follow specific instructions as recommended. The approved amount for home use is 0.5%. Basically, at such low concentration, you can get rid of fleas and other annoying insects like cockroaches, ants, and scorpions.
The insecticide is common for veterinary treatment, especially of fleas and ticks. It attacks insects by disrupting the nervous system and inducing paralysis. Upon application, the insecticide remains active for 30-45 days. Its earlier versions proved harmful to mammals until manufacturers introduced Metaflumizone . The product also acts on the spot without sparing any crawling insect within its reach. As usual, follow instructions as labeled and do not consume Metaflumizone. On animals, apply on their neck.
Like Metaflumizone, Tetraclorvinphos insecticide is perfect for killing fleas. It is also a suitable compound for eliminating ticks. Initially, the product was approved for a limited purpose such as crops but come 1987; the registration became banned. It was later introduce in the American markets in 1966. The government has overseen the insecticides regulation to a satisfactory point where it is safe for home use. However, you MUST observe instructions as recommended. Studies show that Tetraclorvinphos is slight to non-toxic to toxic but excessive amount can be hazardous. Do not expose children to the compound as they are more vulnerable than adults.
The insecticide features S-methoprene as an active ingredient that allows it to be the best insect growth regulator for home use. Other active ingredients that enhance Precor include Permethrin and Phenothrin. The spray controls not only fleas but also ticks and cockroaches. You can see its label for more insects managed by Precor 2000. Professionals usually advise users to apply the insecticide in garages, wood flooring, carpets, and tiles. Do not forget kennels, rugs, and your pet’s regular spot.
Precor 2000 has powerful and fast knockout properties due to its active ingredients. Furthermore, it offers lasting protection of about seven months. A single package covers 2000 square feet of infected area by minimizing flea population and preventing re-infestation for another 210 days. The insecticide attacks the entire flea development cycle. From larvae to adult flea, Precor does not leave anything to chance. Even the hatching flea eggs become eliminated in the process. For such a strong product, you need to be in protective clothing while spraying. Avoid inhaling or ingesting Precor 2000. Also, you should not use the insecticide on your pets directly. It is not safe.
This product is among the most popular treatment worldwide. It has both pyrethrins and pyrethroids whose toxic properties kill adult fleas quickly. Raid Flea killer also has methoprene and Insect Growth Regulator that prevents eggs and larvae from developing.
Furthermore, its active ingredients provide lasting effects estimated at four months. Compared to its competitors, Raid Carpet and Room Spray sell at a low price. Although it has low IGR concentration, it is as effective as the rest.
Observe safety regulations before application. First, shake the spray before use. You should always point the nozzle away from your face. While applying on the surface or carpet, hold the can upside down and spray uniformly. Do not leave any spot untouched for a positive outcome.
Complete flea elimination occurs when you spread the treatment nearby fabric and spray regularly. Do not forget your pet’s beddings and sleeping quarters. They are the most infested including the spots they frequent. After use, dispose of the container as directed and if the contents remain, store away from children. Do not burn Raid’s empty containers or puncture the can.
This ready-to-spray insecticide is appropriate for yard use. It kills fleas as well as other insects like mosquitoes and cockroaches. Wondercide is considered environmentally friendly because it does not harm useful pests such as bees and it is biodegradable. Furthermore, the insecticide is friendly to pets, flowers, and kids. On fleas, it eliminates everything including eggs, pupa, and mature insects.
ExiteR is pyrethrin-based with Piperonyl Butoxide as it accompanying ingredient. Since pyrethrin is natural and Piperonyl organic, their combined properties form a powerful effect for eliminating fleas on your yard. You can comfortably use it around pets and children but do not expose them to the contents. The product is also not aggressive to plants, flowers, or useful insects like butterflies.
What Are Some Of The Advantages Of Insecticides For Fleas?
They eliminate and repel fleas in your home and on your pet’s body. Insecticides prevent you from getting flea-related diseases like Typhus. They also contain growth regulators that manage flea populations by eliminating eggs and larvae. The products also render hatching eggs irresponsive such that no young fleas develop. Unlike other methods of flea elimination, insecticides offer lasting effects as well as a quick knock out action. Most insecticides have more than one usage. Some control a wide range of insects apart from fleas. Others can be used for agricultural and horticultural purposes as well.
Flea products have various limitations. One of them is the fact that some insecticides target harmless insects like bees. They also affect aquatic life if released in large volumes. Birds too have no luck especially if they consume contaminated plants or water. Another demerit would be the ability of insects to become resistant to these compounds. When that happens, fleas multiply and their population grows drastically until another solution is found.
Compared to non-chemical methods of elimination, insecticides are relatively expensive. Those with non-biodegradable material pose a great threat to the environment as well. Some products have prolonged lasting effect such that when heavy rain falls, the contents reach the drains and flow into rivers. In humans, chronic poisoning can occur, especially if one is exposed to the compound in small doses for lengthy periods.
How Do You Prepare Your Home For Treatment?
The first step is to clean your residence thoroughly. This includes pet quarters, animal sheds, poultry section, and dairy farmyards. If you fail to do this, your treatment will not work. Pay attention under the furniture, closets, pet regions, cracks, and crevices. The second step is to remove habitats and keep children away from the treatment area. The final step is to choose suitable products and spray or dust everywhere. Seal your food and tightly close drinking water to avoid contamination. Apply three to four times a year until you cannot spot fleas or other insects.
The treatment is suitable for both indoors and outdoors. It gets rid of adult fleas, especially in your house. Adam’s spray is easy to use on your lawn as well. All you need is to attach it to your hose and direct the contents to nearby bushes and flowers.
The product is a yard and garden insecticide for controlling adult fleas. It also repels them from your pets and lasts for four to six weeks. Note that, BioSpot has toxic ingredients that can bring harm to pets and children. Keep your dog and cat away from treated lawns until it dries. Furthermore, the spray happens to possess a fast knockout effect.
This product has Nylar, pyrethrin, and other synergists as active ingredients compressed in a convenient bottle ready to use. It repels and kills fleas as well as other dog and cat lice. Advantage spray treatment attacks eggs, larvae, and adult fleas thus stopping their lifecycle. Furthermore, it kills Lyme-disease-carrying ticks that are harmful to pets.
The product has proven powerful enough to protect your dog or cat for 100 days. However, you should consider regular application across your residence to eradicate their presence entirely. Note that, dogs and cats under six and seven months respectively should not be treated.
Before spraying your pet, cover its eyes and avoid getting the compound in their mouths or nose. Apply the contents on their heads, ears, and chest. Do not stop until these specific areas are damp. Use your fingertips to put the Advantage Treatment around their eyes, mouth, and nose. Later spray around their necks all the way to the tail and then legs.
Which Are The Best Killer Sprays For Flea Elimination?
We recommend pyrethrins, pyrethroids, and imidacloprid as your first options. Look for insecticides that have these three active ingredients or two of them. You can also consider products with one of the elements mentioned above combined with Insect Growth Regulators. Pyrethrins are natural insecticides transferred to an insects system via contact. Pyrethroids, on the other hand, are synthetics but highly effective with a powerful yet lasting effect. Imidacloprid is not a joke either. It has been in the market for longer and proven to have lasting effects. The insecticide is nicotine-based (that is Neonicotinoid) and therefore, it attacks its target’s nervous system within minutes.
Try Fipronil as well. It will leave your pets well-protected and highly immune to fleas. This is because it has a repelling effect against these insects. Do not forget to read the labels thoroughly. Some Fipronil-based products are not safe for cats or dogs. Be sure to follow instructions as recommended. Raid Flea Killer is also a useful product. It comes in a spray can that is easy to use in upholstery and other hidden spaces. With raid, you can quickly access corners, furniture joints, and carpet edges.
We have explored quite a selection of insecticides for fleas so you may have an easier time deciding. In a world where the insects are unwanted, fleas always find their way into your home. Whether it is through your pets or packages, they have no shame in making your residence their camping ground, and that is why you need insecticides. You do not want them to bite you or your children and then suffer from Typhus. If you notice fleas’ presence, buy select an insecticide from above and spray everywhere. Before application, clean your home thoroughly and replace your pet’s beddings. We have identified two types of fleas: the common kind and sand flea. Both develop from the same species except sand fleas fall from infected animals and multiply. Choose the best products mentioned under “the best killer spray’ section for excellent results.