Fleas
The adult cat flea is a small, 1/8 inch, reddish-brown insect, which feeds primarily on dogs and cats. There are several species of fleas that feed on other animals and can invade a home if animals are present. Identification of species will require a magnification of 30X or more to distinguish the important characteristics.
Fleas are true parasite and blood feeders. Small and flattened, they easily move between the hairs, or fur, of the animal being fed on. Flea larvae are elongated and worm-like and feed on the droppings of the adult fleas found in areas where pets frequent. Larvae will not generally be found on the animals.
Cat Flea Habits
Fleas can live inside or outside the structure and can be brought into the structure by infested animals. In severe infestations, or when infested animals are not present, adults may feed on humans. Bites usually occur around the feet and legs of humans. Some people may react to the bite, or exacerbate the bite by itching and scratching the area.
Adult fleas need a blood meal before they can lay viable eggs. The adult will spend almost all of its adult life on the animal host, and can survive several months without feeding. The eggs are laid on the animal and usually fall off in areas where the animal sleeps, or frequents, then hatch into larvae. The pupae of the fleas are in small debris-covered silken cocoons. They can remain in the cocoons until a host is present.
Questions To Ask About Cat Fleas
- Have you been bitten?
- Do you have a pet?
- Have you recently had other animal control problems?
- Have you seen fleas on your pets?
- Where have you seen any fleas?
- Where do your pets frequent, loaf and sleep?
- Have you recently been on vacation with your pet out of the house?
Cat Flea Inspection Tips
A thorough inspection is necessary to determine the extent of the infestation. Look for adult fleas, larvae, fecal droppings and cocoons (you will need a flashlight and good hand lens to identify larvae, droppings and cocoons). Be very familiar with the biology of this insect.
- Look carefully in areas where the pets sleep or frequent
- Look on furniture where pest may lay
Wear white socks over your shoes when inspecting and look for adult fleas on the socks. In areas where pets frequent, use adhesive tape, by touching the sticky side to surfaces and inspect for droppings and larvae. Inspect animals for fleas and look for flea “dirt” (droppings) on the animal. Determine if there are flea populations outside.
