Residential pest control can be done proactively, or a pest control company can come out for an infestation. You should have your home treated regularly because this is the best way to limit how many pest-related problems you have to deal with. There are so many types of pests, and each of them brings its own set of potential troubles you're better off avoiding. This article will introduce you to some of the more common pests homeowners deal with and explain how they can cause problems for your family. This can help you recognize the importance of having pest control treat your house.

Fleas

If you have pets, then there's an increased chance you'll end up dealing with fleas at some point. Fleas are tiny, making them difficult to see. They'll attack your pet and can cause problems ranging from itching to serious health issues. When your pet has fleas, many will jump off and start biting your family. While fleas can give people itchy bites, they normally don't pose serious health risks to people. However, your pets can end up with problems that include: 

  • Flea Allergy Dermatitis: This is a skin issue when your pet is allergic to flea saliva.
  • Cat Scratch Fever: Cats can get this from fleas and pass the serious illness to humans.
  • Tapeworms: Ingesting fleas can cause tapeworms, which are dangerous parasites.
  • Anemia: Fleas can feed so much on your pet that it becomes anemic. 

Roaches

Roaches are pests that many households struggle with, regardless of the condition of their home. They can come inside by squeezing through cracks, entering through open doors, or being brought in on something carried into the home. Roaches come in looking for food, water, and shelter. Once they find these things, they'll hang around and quickly start laying eggs in the house. 

Roach infestations can happen quickly and become serious. Pest control should be called out at the first sign of a single roach. When you see one, there are usually many others you don't see. They'll defecate all over the house and can spread diseases that can include: 

  • Salmonella: Many symptoms of salmonella can mimic the flu. 
  • Cholera: Cholera causes an acute diarrheal illness by infecting the intestines. 
  • Staphylococcus: Staphylococcus is a skin infection that can cause painful boils. 

Ants

Ants are so tiny that it's nearly impossible to seal your home up tight enough to prevent them from getting inside. Ants send in scouts to look for food and water. It's likely they'll find something tempting in your home, and when they do, they'll go let all the other ants in their hive know. This leads to an infestation in your house that can be frustrating. 

Ants commonly end up in the kitchen and will get all over the countertops, stove, and other cooking surfaces. Ants can sting, and some people can be allergic to them. Fire ants have a very painful sting, and up to 16% of people are highly allergic to them. Some people can go into anaphylactic shock when stung by fire ants. If you see ants inside your home, call the pest control company to come out and treat your home.

Contact a pest control company near you to learn more. 

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