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Fleas

Flea Control & Treatment in Newcastle, Sunderland & Durham | Pest Shield

Fleas are tiny parasites, about 3mm long, that feed on the blood of cats, dogs, and humans. In the UK, the most common species is the cat flea. Their eggs are just 0.5mm long, pearly white and sticky, allowing debris to cling to them for camouflage. Fleas usually live in carpets and upholstery, rarely seen, only leaving to jump onto pets to feed. While they don’t live on humans, they will bite if cats or dogs aren’t available. At Pest Shield, we provide professional flea control Newcastle, Sunderland & Durham, treating homes and businesses to eliminate infestations quickly and effectively.


Why Treat a Flea Infestation?

A female flea can lay up to 25 eggs per day. For every flea you see on a pet, there could be hundreds more hidden in carpets or furnishings. Treating pets alone won’t remove an infestation. Left unchecked, fleas breed rapidly and can spread to other homes, offices, or public places.

Flea bites are uncomfortable for pets and people, often worse for women and children. Reactions can vary from mild itching to swelling. Professional flea control in Newcastle, Sunderland & Durham ensures infestations are removed at the source, not just on pets.


Signs of a Flea Infestation

  • Bites on feet, ankles, and legs (fleas jump no higher than 6 inches).

  • Children’s bites may appear on other body parts as they play on carpets.

  • Visible fleas in severe infestations, especially in low-pile carpets.

  • Fleas on pets, such as cats or dogs, often the first visible sign.

  • Activity after pets leave – when the host is gone, fleas may bite humans.


Preparing for Flea Control Newcastle Treatments

  • Clear clutter from the floor (toys, shoes, books).

  • Vacuum all floors, especially carpet edges.

  • Dispose of the vacuum bag in an outside bin.

  • Mow lawns if fleas may be present outdoors.

  • Treat pets with new collars and topical flea insecticide.


Aftercare Advice

  • Allow treated surfaces to dry completely.

  • Do not touch treated areas or allow pets inside until dry.

  • Ventilate rooms and increase heat to boost effectiveness.

  • Avoid vacuuming for at least two weeks.

  • After two weeks, vacuum once or twice daily, focusing on carpet edges.

  • Use treated areas normally — flea pupae may remain dormant for up to a year, triggered by warmth or movement.

  • Keep treated pets indoors for three weeks so fleas feed on them rather than humans.


How Our Flea Control Works

Our trained technicians apply residual insecticide to floors and carpets. Fleas absorb the treatment, though they may not die instantly. It’s normal to see fleas for up to three weeks as pupae continue to emerge.

In multi-occupancy buildings, monthly treatments may be required. In offices, employees with pets must treat their animals at home, or infestations may persist in the workplace.


Special Situations

  • Shared buildings – Require repeat visits to fully eradicate the infestation.

  • Empty homes – Fleas may stay dormant until new occupants arrive. Infestations often go unnoticed by previous residents if fleas were feeding only on pets.


Flea Control Newcastle – FAQs

How long do fleas live?
Adult fleas usually live 2–4 months, but eggs and pupae can survive much longer, making treatment essential.

Do fleas only bite pets?
No. While fleas prefer cats and dogs, they will bite humans if pets are not available. Professional flea control Newcastle removes fleas at all life stages.

Can I get rid of fleas myself?
DIY sprays and powders may kill some adults, but without treating carpets, eggs, and pupae, infestations return. Professional flea treatment ensures long-lasting results.

Why do fleas keep coming back after treatment?
Flea pupae can remain dormant for months and hatch later. This is why aftercare instructions like vacuuming after two weeks are vital.

How soon will I see results?
You may still see fleas for up to 3 weeks, as emerging pupae are affected by the insecticide. Activity should decline steadily until the infestation is gone.


Professional Flea Control in the North East

Flea infestations are disruptive, uncomfortable, and persistent without expert help. Pest Shield provides flea control & treatment in Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham and across the North East, ensuring your home or workplace is safe, hygienic and pest-free.

For fast, reliable, and safe pest control solutions. Call us on 0191 7166647
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