Fleas

FLEA IDENTIFICATION

Fleas are tiny, troublesome, biting pests that live and feed on animals and humans. Known as ectoparasites, fleas live on the outside of their host. Common fleas have reddish-brown bodies that look flattened from the sides when viewed head on. These pests are about 1/8 inch long when mature and have very large hind legs.

Though they're often referred to as either "cat fleas" or "dog fleas," these pests aren't picky about their hosts. As long as a blood meal is available, they'll jump up to 12 inches to hitch a ride and find a home. After they feed, their semi-translucent bellies reveal the blood inside.

SIGNS OF FLEAS

Scratching pets and humans are the first signs of a flea outbreak. Bites often occur on ankles, leaving small, round, bright red marks behind. If you hold an infested animal, bites may occur on your arms or chest. To check your scratching pets for an infestation, groom their fur and then clean the grooming tool over a light-colored cloth. You'll see fleas and their excrement clearly.

Fleas can transmit pathogens that cause disease in humans, pets and wildlife. Sometimes they transmit these directly through their bites. Other times, pathogens get transmitted indirectly through animals, such as rodents, that fleas may bite. If you happen to see wildlife, such as rabbits, scratching furiously, you may have a flea problem in your yard.

HOW TO CONTROL FLEAS

Effective flea control involves killing fleas before they infest animals and make their way into your home. These Amdro® brand products can protect your home's perimeter, and the lawn and landscape areas where pets and children may play:

• Amdro Quick Kill® Home Perimeter Insect Killer Granules create a band of protection around your home to kill fleas outdoors. This premium product includes sand to work quickly and effectively. The easy-to use granules kill fleas by contact and keep on killing for up to three months.
• Amdro Quick Kill Outdoor Insect Killer Concentrate, with a convenient measuring cap, can be applied with a standard lawn sprayer. Dilute the product with water according to label instructions, then spray your lawn and landscape. The liquid starts working by contact to kill fleas and protect treated areas.
• Amdro Quick Kill Lawn Insect Killer Granules II provide an effective answer to full-yard flea control. Apply the granules with a standard lawn spreader, then lightly water the treated area to release the active ingredient. The granules kill fleas within 24 hours and keep working to protect your home.

FLEA CONTROL TIPS

Never apply a lawn and garden flea control product to a human or a pet. Consult your doctor or veterinarian regarding medically approved treatment and flea prevention options for animals.

Always read product labels and follow the instructions carefully.
Amdro and Amdro Quick Kill are registered trademarks of Central Garden & Pet Company.