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Des Moines · IA
When does flea season start in Des Moines?
Flea season in Des Moines typically runs early April to late October, peaking May–Sep.
Ticks in Des Moines
Local tick activity typically runs mid-March to late November, heaviest May–Oct. The species to know in Iowa: American dog tick, blacklegged (deer) tick, lone star tick.
More on species and timing: Iowa tick season.
Numbers come from NOAA U.S. Climate Normals (1991–2020) recorded at DES MOINES INTL AP — a climate-based estimate; real years wobble.
Frequently asked questions
When does flea season start in Des Moines?
Around early April in a typical year, once local averages hold around 50°F. A warm spring pulls it earlier — prevention shouldn't wait for the calendar.
Is flea season in Des Moines different from the rest of Iowa?
Not meaningfully — Des Moines tracks the Iowa statewide estimate closely. Both are climate-based estimates, so treat the edges as fuzzy, not exact.
Do dogs in Des Moines need prevention outside flea season?
Yes — vets recommend year-round parasite prevention regardless of the local calendar. Indoor fleas ignore the weather entirely, and ticks in Iowa are typically active mid-March to mid-November, a longer window than fleas get.