The Potential Dangers of Cockroaches to Humans and Pets

Most people agree that cockroaches are gross, but that’s not the only reason you don’t want them in your house. Cockroaches can contaminate food, trigger allergens, bring in diseases, and occasionally bite. These insects can certainly pose a threat to both humans and pets that live together, with the most common problem being the transfer of diseases through droppings, saliva, or their bodies.

Don’t let cockroaches become a bigger problem! Responsible Pest Control is here to educate you on what a cockroach really is, how to spot one, why they might be in your house, the dangers they pose, and how to get rid of them. If you suspect a cockroach infestation is brewing in your home, contact us right away!

What Is a Cockroach?

A cockroach is an insect that belongs to the Blattodea order. They measure between half an inch and two inches long and are great at hiding and squeezing into tight spaces. Cockroaches have distinct oval bodies, long antennas, and six legs.

One unfortunate aspect of cockroaches is their egg-laying. Their egg cases are typically brown, oval-shaped capsules hidden in cracks, crevices, behind furniture, or locations typically unsuspected.  The eggs are contained in what’s called an ootheca, which can house a few dozen to hundreds of eggs. The reputation of being a prolific breeder means you can’t take a cockroach infestation lightly. There could be thousands as soon as you spot one. Getting professionals involved as soon as possible is important to helping contain infestations as much as possible.

What Attracts Cockroaches?

Cockroaches don’t just appear out of nowhere, so if you see one in your home, there is a reason why. They usually look for two things: a source of food and a source of water.

Maintaining a clean home by regularly washing dirty dishes, having sealed trash cans, and proper food storage are simple ways to ensure cockroaches can’t get the snacks they want.

Not only do they want a meal, but cockroaches also look for certain living conditions that are damp and humid. Keeping moisture levels under control with a dehumidifier and addressing any leaks or faucets will prevent moisture conditions that cockroaches like to make a home in. However, despite these preventive measures, cockroaches can still show up unannounced.

Why Are Cockroaches Dangerous?

Cockroaches can cause various issues in a home, the foremost being the potential of spreading diseases that could seriously impact your health. Here are some of the diseases that cockroaches have been known to carry:

• Salmonella
• Typhoid Fever
• Dysentery
• Poliomyelitis
• E. coli
• Staphylococcus

Their potential to spread illness and disease means if you see a cockroach in your home, make sure to call professional pest control right away.

What Are the Other Dangers of Cockroaches?

Disease transmission from cockroaches generally happens indirectly through feces, saliva, shedding body parts, contaminated food, and other infected surfaces. However, there’s another way that cockroaches can spread disease: through their bites.

Although not typically known for biting humans and pets, if a cockroach feels their food or shelter sources are threatened, they have been known to bite. This poses a risk not only to your family but to your pets as well. House pets like Cats & Dogs like to explore and own their space. So, if a cockroach is camped out in a particular space and feels threatened by a curious four-legged family member, it could bite and potentially make your pet sick.

How Do I Get Rid of Cockroaches?

It’s easy to find cockroach bait, sprays, and traps at the supermarket. Unfortunately, these DIY cockroach control solutions aren’t as good as contacting a pest control company like Responsible Pest Control.

While spraying or even stepping on a cockroach or two may seem to solve the problem, it’s only temporary. To get rid of a cockroach infestation you’ll need to eliminate it at the source, which is a job best left to the professionals. By trying to clear out a roach nest by yourself, you run the risk of scattering their colony. The cockroaches will then proceed to find new nesting spots around your house, effectively spreading the infestation. This significantly drives up the cost of the inevitable professional help you will need to get things under control and make your space safe again. Skip the headache, call us first.

To really deal with and get rid of cockroaches, it is essential to get professional help! Not only will you get long-term prevention, but you’ll rest easy knowing your family is protected.

Call in the Professionals!

Cockroaches are no joke; they are prolific breeders, dangerous to you and your pets, and not easy to get rid of alone. If you need professional cockroach control, call Responsible Pest Control for a free quote and pest inspection today! Our pest control professionals will carefully analyze your situation and take steps to ensure that your cockroach problem is eliminated for good.