Fleas

Fleas

Category

Insects

Actual Size

1.5 to 3.3 mm

Characteristics

Small, wingless, reddish-brown, with flattened bodies and powerful hind legs for jumping.

Legs

6

Antennae

Yes, though very small

Wings

None

Habitat

Commonly found on pets, in pet bedding, carpets, and upholstery. Outdoors, they may reside in shaded, moist areas where pets and wildlife spend time.

Pest Overview

Fleas are tiny, parasitic insects that survive by feeding on the blood of animals and, occasionally, humans.

Known for their incredible jumping ability, fleas can quickly spread through homes and yards, especially in households with pets.

Their bites cause itching and irritation, and they can transmit diseases and tapeworms, posing health risks to both pets and people.

Identification

Fleas are small, reddish-brown, and wingless, with flattened bodies that allow them to navigate through animal fur.

They are equipped with strong hind legs, enabling them to jump up to 8 inches vertically and 13 inches horizontally.

Flea larvae are small, pale, and worm-like in appearance, often found in bedding or carpet.

Habitat and Behavior

Fleas thrive in warm, humid environments. They are commonly found on household pets and in pet bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture.

Outdoors, they live in shaded, moist areas, such as under decks, near pet resting spots, and in soil.

Fleas are highly resilient and can go long periods without feeding, waiting for a host to pass by.

Signs of Infestation

  • Pet Scratching: Pets may scratch, bite, or lick excessively due to flea bites.
  • Flea Dirt: Small black specks (flea droppings) on pet fur, bedding, or carpets, which turn red when wet.
  • Bites on Humans: Small, red, itchy bites, often found on ankles and lower legs.
  • Adult Fleas: Sightings of small, fast-moving fleas on pets, bedding, or floors.

Health and Property Risks

Flea bites can cause itching, allergic reactions, and dermatitis in both pets and humans.

Fleas are also vectors for diseases like typhus and cat scratch fever and can transmit tapeworms to pets if ingested.

Heavy infestations can make living conditions uncomfortable and pose health risks, especially to young children and pets.

Prevention Tips

  • Regular Pet Care: Use veterinarian-recommended flea treatments, such as topical solutions or collars.
  • Frequent Cleaning: Wash pet bedding and vacuum carpets and furniture to remove fleas and eggs.
  • Yard Maintenance: Keep outdoor areas clean, mow grass regularly, and remove debris where fleas may hide.
  • Restrict Wildlife Access: Limit animals like raccoons or stray cats from entering your yard, as they may carry fleas.

Control and Treatment Methods

  • Pet Treatments: Topical treatments, flea collars, and oral medications are effective for killing fleas on pets.
  • DIY Solutions: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth on carpets or use flea sprays, focusing on pet areas and carpets.
  • Professional Treatment: For severe infestations, pest control professionals may use insecticides or foggers to eliminate fleas from the home.

Interesting Facts

  • Fleas can jump up to 200 times their body length, one of the longest jumps relative to size in the animal kingdom.
  • Adult fleas can survive for up to 100 days without a blood meal.
  • A female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day, leading to rapid infestations if untreated.

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