Size
1/6”
Color
Reddish brown
Description
The Cat Flea is the most common flea found on pets, preferring domestic dogs and cats as its host. The Cat Flea can carry eggs of the tape worm parasite and transfer the tapeworm to the dog or cat.
The female lays as many as 18 eggs a day. Eggs drop to the ground where they cycle through their larva and pupa stages, which takes about 30 days to complete. Once mature they find a host to live on and feed on blood so they can mate and reproduce.
Control Advice
Regular bathing for your dog or cat will reduce fleas, while regular vacuuming and cleaning your pet’s bedding will reduce eggs and larva. Serious infestations may require chemical treatments, which must be repeated as the eggs and larva are not affected by chemicals. Frequent vacuuming during chemical treatment will stimulate development into adulthood, giving the chemicals more opportunity to kill adults.
Active Seasons
Cat Fleas are most active in spring and summer.