Bedbugs and Fleas: How They Are Different

Just thinking of fleas and bedbugs make most people start itching. Nobody wants them inside their homes and businesses. They are unpleasant and parasitic that we would rather live without.
​
It doesn’t matter whether you are dealing with some fleas or bugs - you have to banish them right away! You might be tempted to grab spray and start treating every nook and corners in your home. But are you really sure if those are fleas or bedbugs? 

The Difference Between Bedbugs and Fleas
Bedbugs and fleas may look similar but they still have a lot of physical and behavioral differences. It is important to know how to identify them so that the right treatment can be applied if an infestation happens in your home.

Bedbugs are flat, oval, and have reddish-brown bodies. They prefer to bite humans and live around beds, bed frames, under mattresses, behind loose wallpaper, second-hand clothing, and furniture. They are usually brought inside homes by clinging to clothes and bags from family members who came from vacations or those who visited homes where bedbug infestations occur. Bedbugs bites are red and raised. They are located in body areas that are exposed during sleep such as hands and feet.  They are not painful, but they can be itchy and will develop into rashes. 

 On the other hand, fleas have dark-colored flat bodies with long legs for jumping. They feed exclusively on dogs, cats, and other furry pets. Their bites can be felt right away which feel like that of a mosquito. Fleas are known to cause Murine typhus, cat scratch disease, Tularemia, and Tungiasis. They are also notorious for transmitting tapeworms to pets. 

 Bedbugs can be killed using over-the-counter bedbug treatment products. On the other hand, flea removal is not easy because of the cryptic nature of this pest. It requires multifaceted treatment plans that include both chemical and physical methods. Addressing flea problem in your pet alone will not stop the infestation. 

 Are you worried about bedbugs and fleas in your home or business? Call Jersey City Exterminators about your flea problem or bedbug problem at (201) 460-6068. We use effective products that will reduce these disease-causing pests in your property fast. Act now before these nasty biters take over your life!