Be wary of fleas at the tail end of month

Pet owners have been put on red alert as an army of fleas threatens to invade homes throughout Scotland over the next few weeks.

Warm temperatures and high humidity rates at the start of the summer, following one of the mildest winters on record, have created a perfect breeding ground for the parasites.

Pest experts fear any infestation could therefore be on a much larger scale than usual and are warning that homes with pets are most at risk.

Nigel Binns, of pest controllers register BASIS PROMPT, said: “The activity and behaviour of fleas is often very much dependent on the climate.

“Mild temperatures during the winter means that fewer than usual will have been killed off and, as they thrive in a warm and humid environment, they’re likely to be present in greater numbers than usual during the next few weeks.

“The population of fleas seems to have grown rapidly in recent years, but the risk of an infestation could be bigger than ever this summer.”

Basic precautions can be taken to reduce the chances of pets getting fleas:

Approved products can be applied to the pets on a regular basis, while areas frequented by pets, including carpets, should be vacuumed frequently.

Bedding, blankets and other items should be regularly washed in the hottest water possible (an economy wash just results in clean fleas!) and it helps if gardens are kept neat and tidy.