December 30, 2007

OHIO – A study performed at Ohio State University revealed that vacuuming is an effective way to kill fleas.

Led by insect specialist W. Fred Hink, the study found that a vacuum's spinning brushes and high wind speeds kill up to 96 percent of adult and 100 percent of larval and young fleas. Researchers believe abrasion from the brushes tears away the insects' wax layer, which holds in moisture. Then, the rapid air causes them to dry up.

The study used the most common type of flea found in household animals, called the “cat flea.” Known in the scientific world as Ctenocephalides, the pests were sucked into a standard upright vacuum. Researchers say they don't think the vacuum design bears much weight in their findings.

The study, reported in Science Daily, says that adult fleas eat blood meal and mate while living on the host. Females lay eggs, which can roll off the animal and onto the ground, sofas, and other common areas.

Eggs hatch within a few days and reach adulthood within a week.

Hink says that between vacuuming and common chemicals used for pest control, there are many fewer incidences of the tiny critters than in years past.

But with such a high kill rate via vacuuming, researchers say there's a strong argument for putting the insect spray back under the sink when preventing the spread of fleas.

When given the option, it's always best to avoid spraying your home and animals with chemicals. It should be known that vacuuming won't necessarily prevent the pests from getting to your animals.

To find safe alternatives to harsh anti-flea chemicals, go to zootoo.com. To nip them in the bud, pull that vacuum out of the closet.

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