![CDC General Recommendations for Flea Disease Prevention: reduce rodent and animal habitat around your home; limit exposure to wild or stray animals; wear repellent if you will be exposed to fleas; keep pets on flea control products year round; bathe and brush pets regularly; limit pet time outdoors; clean pet bedding frequently with soap and water; do not allow pets to sleep on your bed; do not accidentally swallow a dead flea.](https://ucanr.edu/blogs/UCIPMurbanpests/blogfiles/108312small.png)
Fleas can be found on pets year-round, but populations tend to increase dramatically in spring and summer when temperatures are warmer. Larvae develop rapidly in areas where temperatures reach 70° to 90°F. Fleas are a major concern for pet owners as they can give dogs and cats tapeworms, but they can also transmit flea-borne typhus to people and spread plague to wild animals like ground squirrels. These blood-sucking pests can be introduced to backyards from feral cats, squirrels, opossums, and other wildlife.
To learn more about fleas, the diseases they can spread, and their management, check out the recording of UC IPM's Urban & Community IPM Webinar from June 2024 at
- Author: Lauren Fordyce
![A person holding up a white protective netting on pepper plants.](https://ucanr.edu/blogs/UCIPMurbanpests/blogfiles/104846small.jpg)
In February we recognize Valentine's Day, President's Day, and Black History Month, but did you know it is also IPM month?! Join us in celebrating by learning more about integrated pest management (IPM), how you can use it in your everyday life, and the pest management resources and information offered by UC IPM.
What is IPM?
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a more sustainable, environmentally friendly method for managing pests like insects, diseases, weeds, and unwanted wildlife. IPM can be used by anyone: homeowners, tenants, farmers, gardeners, janitors, groundskeepers, professional landscapers and pest control operators, and more.
IPM focuses on the long-term management of pests...
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