Ticks may be small, but their presence in your home can lead to big problems. Not only do they bite and latch onto humans and pets, but they can also spread dangerous diseases like Lyme disease. Spotting the signs of a tick infestation early is crucial so you can act fast and prevent the issue from escalating. If the signs show the risk of a larger infestation, then it is highly recommended to seek professional services from a company like Saela Pest Control.

Here are five key indicators that your home may be infested with ticks, along with steps you can take to address the problem.

1. Ticks on Your Pets

Your furry friends are one of the most common carriers of ticks. If you notice your dog or cat constantly scratching or grooming a specific spot, it’s worth investigating further. Ticks often attach themselves to warm, hidden areas such as behind ears, under collars, and between toes.

What to Do:

• Examine your pet closely for ticks, particularly after outdoor activities.
• Use a pet-safe tick treatment, such as collars, sprays, or spot-on solutions.
• Schedule regular tick checks and grooming sessions. If you find multiple ticks, consult your veterinarian.

2. Unexplained Bites on Humans

Ticks don’t just stick to animals, they can bite humans, too. Unlike mosquito bites, tick bites are often painless at first but may cause redness, swelling, or small welts. If you or your family members experience unusual, itchy bites, it’s time to investigate further.

What to Do:

• Inspect your skin carefully, especially around the neck, waist, and underarms, as ticks prefer these areas.
• Wash and disinfect any bites immediately and monitor for signs of a rash or other symptoms.
• If you suspect that ticks have entered your home, follow up with a thorough inspection.

3. Ticks Found in Furniture or Carpets

Ticks can hide in soft surfaces like furniture, rugs, or bedding if they’ve been carried inside by pets, humans, or infested items. Spotting ticks crawling on your couch or finding a small, hard bug in your carpet is a telltale sign of a growing infestation.

What to Do:

• Vacuum all soft furnishings, carpets, and under furniture regularly to eliminate hidden ticks.
• Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabric in hot water to kill ticks and their larvae.
• Consider using tick-specific sprays or treatments on furniture and carpets as a preventive measure.

4. Presence of Tick Eggs or Nymphs

While adult ticks are easier to spot, their eggs and nymphs are much smaller and harder to notice. Ticks lay eggs in hidden areas such as cracks in the floorboards, crevices in walls, or the corners of furniture. If you see tiny, clustered dots or small larvae-like bugs, it could indicate a tick problem.

What to Do:

• Sweep and vacuum regularly, especially in corners, crevices, and other hidden areas.
• Use diatomaceous earth or insecticides in areas known for high tick activity.
• Call a professional pest control service if you suspect a significant infestation.

5. Frequent Ticks Coming Indoors from Outdoor Areas

Ticks may gradually invade your home if your yard or outdoor areas are already infested. If you frequently find ticks near doors, windows, or even in outdoor seating areas, they may be hitching a ride inside.

What to Do:

• Mow your lawn regularly, remove leaf litter, and trim back shrubs to reduce tick habitats.
• Create a barrier of mulch or gravel around your yard to keep ticks from crossing into your home.
• Treat your yard with tick-repellent products or hire a professional to manage outdoor infestations.

Conclusion

If you’ve identified one or more signs of a tick infestation, acting quickly is essential to keeping your home safe and pest-free. Spotting a tick infestation early can save you from significant trouble later. With regular checks, proper cleaning, and proactive measures, you can protect your home and loved ones from these unwelcome pests. 

Take action today to enjoy a safe, tick-free environment!