Frequently Asked Questions About Fleas & Ticks

Understanding Fleas & Ticks: What You Need to Know

Fleas and ticks are parasitic pests that many individuals encounter when they have pets, but these pests can invade your property regardless of whether or not you have pets. Both ticks and fleas feed on the blood of humans and animals, and they have specialized mouthparts that allow them to pierce the skin of their hosts. 

Common Flea Types Found in Tennessee

The most common type of flea encountered by residents of Cookeville and Crossville, TN, is the cat flea. Despite its name, the cat flea is not exclusive to cats and is the most prevalent flea found on both cats and dogs in Tennessee. They can also bite humans and infest homes. We also see the dog flea. Less common than the cat flea, dog fleas primarily infest dogs but can also affect other animals and humans.

These flea types thrive in warm, humid environments, making Tennessee’s climate ideal for their proliferation. Regular pest control measures and proper pet care are essential to manage and prevent flea infestations.

Identifying Tick Species in Tennessee

In Tennessee, several tick species are commonly found, each with its own habitat preferences and potential health risks. Ticks vary in color and size depending on the species, here are the most prevalent types:

• American Dog Tick: Often found in grassy and wooded areas, this tick primarily feeds on dogs but will also bite humans. It can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia.
• Blacklegged Tick: Also known as the deer tick, this species is prevalent in wooded and forested areas. It is a primary vector for Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis.
• Lone Star Tick: Recognizable by the white dot on the back of adult females, this tick is common in wooded areas and is aggressive in seeking hosts. It can transmit ehrlichiosis, tularemia, and Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI).
• Brown Dog Tick: This tick prefers warm environments and can be found both indoors and outdoors, often in kennels and homes. It primarily feeds on dogs and can transmit canine ehrlichiosis and canine babesiosis.

Awareness and preventive measures are essential for reducing tick exposure and minimizing the risk of tick-borne diseases in Tennessee. Regularly check pets and family members for ticks after spending time outdoors, and use appropriate tick repellents and control measures.

The Dangers of Flea & Tick Infestations

Fleas and ticks are considered dangerous pests due to the problems that flea and tick bites bring. Both of these pests are known for transmitting diseases through their bites; ticks can transmit Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, among other illnesses, while fleas are known to transmit tapeworms, heartworms to animals, and diseases such as tungiasis, tularemia, and murine typhus.

Tick and flea bites may also cause skin irritation and inflammation, and animals may suffer from anemia and lethargy if a tick or flea infestation is left untreated.