Ants and fleas

Ants are social insects related to wasps and bees. Each ant belongs to a colony with workers and one or more queens, and a colony can forage over a wide area. The black garden ant is the most common ant in Britain and is the one most often found trailing into kitchens in spring and summer.

Black garden ants do not pose a major health risk, but they are a real nuisance in homes and workplaces. They also farm aphids, which can damage fruit and flowers in the garden.

How we treat ants

We trace the trail back to where the ants are entering, treat the nest and entry points, and recommend sealing gaps at wall and floor junctions. Small problems can sometimes be handled with shop-bought products. Larger or recurring infestations need a professional treatment with the right product for the job.

Fleas are small wingless insects that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. In UK homes the cat flea is by far the most common, and it is just as happy on dogs and people. Bites are itchy and some people and pets react badly to them, with irritation lasting for weeks.

Adult fleas are reddish-brown, about 2 to 3mm long, with strong back legs for jumping. Most of a flea population lives in the home as eggs, larvae and pupae in carpets, bedding and furniture, not on the pet. Pupae can lie dormant for months, which is why fleas often appear in a property that has been empty.

How we treat fleas

1. Treat your petsUse a vet-recommended flea treatment on every pet in the house, at the same time as our visit.
2. Prepare the homeClear floors and vacuum thoroughly, including under furniture, just before we arrive.
3. TreatmentWe treat carpets, floors and soft furnishings with a professional insecticide.
4. AfterwardsKeep vacuuming daily. It encourages remaining pupae to hatch and contact the treatment. Avoid washing or shampooing carpets for 14 days.