If you live in Cookeville or Crossville, you may have noticed a bigger flea problem this year — and you’re not alone. Fleas are particularly active during this time; experts say the infestation pressures are stronger than usual. Fleas can cause discomfort for pets and humans alike, aside from the challenge of a persistent infestation that’s hard to control.
Our team at Midstate Termite & Pest Control explores why fleas are more of a problem this season, the factors driving their increase, and what you can do to keep your home and family protected. We’ll also explain why relying on DIY methods often falls short and why professional help is the better path to lasting flea control.
Why Are Fleas Getting Worse This Year in Cookeville and Crossville?
Several environmental and ecological factors have combined to make flea activity more intense:
- Climate Conditions – Fleas thrive in warm, humid weather. Mild winters and a moist spring in this region have created perfect breeding conditions, allowing flea populations to grow rapidly and stay active throughout the year.
- Wildlife and Stray Animal Activity – Increased wildlife activity like raccoons, opossums, and stray cats around residential areas can bring more fleas close to homes. These animals serve as hosts to fleas and can spread them in yards and neighborhood green spaces.
- Increased Outdoor Activity – The warmer season encourages more outdoor time for pets and families, increasing exposure opportunities. Fleas hitch rides on pets and can easily enter homes after outdoor walks or visits to the park.
- Delayed or Insufficient Control Efforts – If flea control measures were skipped or only partially implemented last year, existing infestations might have rebounded stronger this season.
What Can You Do to Avoid Fleas?
Protecting your home and pets from fleas involves several practical steps:
- Regular Pet Care – Keep pets on veterinarian-recommended flea prevention year-round, including topical treatments or oral medications. Regular checks and grooming with a flea comb help catch problems early.
- Yard Maintenance – Trim grass and prune bushes to reduce flea-friendly shady, humid areas. Avoid leaving pet food outdoors that attracts wild animals. If flea activity is high, consider treating your yard with safe flea control products.
- Home Cleaning – Vacuum carpets, rugs, and pet bedding frequently. Empty vacuum bags or canisters outside to prevent fleas from escaping. Washing pet bedding and household linens every two weeks in hot water can reduce flea eggs and larvae inside the home.
- Limit Wildlife Contact – Seal gaps under decks, sheds, and crawl spaces to reduce wildlife sheltering near your home. Also, secure trash cans and compost bins to discourage wild animals from frequenting your yard.
- Monitor and Act Early – At the first sign of fleas on your pets or in your home, act quickly. Smaller infestations are easier to control before fleas multiply.
Why DIY Flea Control May Not Be Enough
It’s tempting to try DIY flea treatments from stores or online, but often these methods only address part of the problem. Fleas go through multiple life stages — eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults — which all require targeted treatment strategies.
Using DIY flea control methods may lead to:
- Incomplete Coverage – DIY sprays or powders may kill adult fleas on contact, but often miss eggs and larvae hidden deep in carpets or pet bedding. Fleas that survive can reestablish the infestation quickly.
- Incorrect Use – Without expertise, products may be misapplied, at the wrong concentration, or to areas where fleas commonly hide, reducing effectiveness.
- Safety Risks – Overusing or mixing flea control products can harm pets, family members, or the environment. Professional pest controllers follow safety protocols and use approved, pet-safe products.
Professionals can identify infestation sources, treat indoor and outdoor areas comprehensively, and provide advice on preventing future problems.
How Midstate Termite & Pest Control Can Help
Midstate Termite & Pest Control knows how challenging fleas can be and is equipped to handle infestations safely and effectively in Cookeville and Crossville.
We take a thorough approach that includes:
- Inspecting homes and yards to find where fleas live and breed
- Using treatments that target all flea life stages to break the cycle.
- Providing guidance on pet bedding sanitation, yard maintenance, and pet care to prevent re-infestation
- Offering ongoing support and follow-up to keep fleas under control through peak seasons.
Dealing with fleas early and professionally is the best way to protect your family, pets, and home from their disruptive impact.
Contact Our Flea Control Professionals Today
Fleas are more than just a nuisance—they can disrupt daily life and health if left unmanaged, especially in Cookeville and Crossville, where this season’s activity is unusually high. Taking proactive steps with reliable pest control and good pet care practices can reduce your risk and give you peace of mind.
If fleas are causing problems at your home or you want to prevent an infestation, Midstate Termite & Pest Control is here to help. Our team is ready to evaluate your situation and provide tailored solutions to help you regain control.
Call Midstate Termite & Pest Control today at (931) 286-7245 to get a free initial inspection and protect your home and family from fleas this season!