What Are Fleas?
What Are Fleas?
Fleas are small, wingless insects that live on animals and feed on their blood. They are the most common external parasite found on dogs and cats. Adult fleas live on pets, while immature fleas (eggs and larvae) are found in the environment.
How Do Pets Get Fleas?
Pets do not usually get fleas by direct contact with another animal. Instead, they pick up fleas from their surroundings, such as:
Grass, carpets, bedding, and furniture where flea eggs and larvae live
Outdoor areas where fleas thrive, especially in warm, humid conditions
The Flea Life Cycle
Fleas reproduce rapidly. A single female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day. The flea life cycle includes:
Eggs – Laid on the pet but fall into the environment.
Larvae – Hatch from eggs and feed on organic material.
Pupae – Spin protective cocoons and develop into adult fleas.
Adults – Emerge from cocoons and jump onto a pet to feed.
Signs Your Pet Has Fleas
Excessive scratching, biting, or licking
Hair loss, especially around the tail, belly, and neck
Red, irritated skin or scabs
Presence of flea dirt (tiny black specks that turn red when wet)
Visible fleas in the fur
Pale gums (in cases of severe flea infestations causing anemia)
Why Are Fleas Dangerous?
Fleas are not just annoying; they can cause serious health problems:
Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) – An allergic reaction to flea saliva, causing severe itching and skin infections.
Anemia – Severe flea infestations can cause blood loss, leading to weakness and pale gums.
Tapeworms – Fleas can carry tapeworm larvae, which can infect pets if swallowed.
Disease Transmission – Fleas can spread infections such as Bartonella (cat scratch disease) and other bacterial infections.
How to Check for Fleas
Look for Flea Dirt – Use a flea comb to check your pet’s fur, especially around the base of the tail and belly.
The Wet Paper Towel Test – Place flea dirt on a wet paper towel. If it turns red, it contains blood, confirming fleas are present.
Observe for Symptoms – Scratching, biting, and hair loss are key signs.
Flea Prevention & Treatment
Preventing fleas is easier than treating an infestation. Here’s how:
Use Flea Prevention Products – Monthly flea preventatives (topical or oral) are highly effective. Your veterinarian can recommend the best option for your pet.
Treat the Environment – Vacuum regularly and wash pet bedding in hot water to remove flea eggs and larvae.
Treat All Pets in the Home – Even indoor pets can get fleas, so all animals in the household should be on flea prevention.
Professional Pest Control – If fleas persist, consider professional treatment for your home and yard.
When to See the Vet
Contact your veterinarian if:
Your pet is excessively itching, biting, or losing hair.
You notice signs of a flea infestation in your home.
Your pet is lethargic or has pale gums (a sign of anemia).
Flea treatments do not seem to be working.
Final Thoughts
Fleas are a common but preventable problem for pets. Regular flea prevention and environmental control are key to keeping your pet happy and healthy. Talk to your veterinarian about the best flea control plan for your pet!
For more information, contact your veterinarian.
