Fleas and ticks are always used interchangeably when referring to parasitic creatures that feed on their hosts. However, there is a difference between both organisms. As a result of the lack of clear distinction, people pay more attention to ticks than fleas. Fleas can however be quite dangerous, as they are very small. Measuring only 2 millimeters at their adult stage, it is usually difficult to spot them. Their eggs are even smaller, making it near impossible to stop their spread. This article answers all the questions that you have about fleas, feral cats, your pets, and you. Check here to find out more.
Fleas and Your Pets
Understanding the nature of flea is very important, as it helps you to adequately protect yourself and your pet. There are about 2000 different species of fleas in existence all over the world. Fleas are usually named according to the hosts that they latch on. As such, we have fleas such as dog fleas, cat fleas, rat fleas as well as human fleas. Dog fleas and cat fleas usually latch onto either dogs or cats, because of the presence of fur in both animals. Cat fleas and dog fleas enjoy the warmth that comes from them, and they live on them by latching onto strands of fur covering their skin.
Human fleas, on the other hand, enjoy the warmth of the human skin. While fleas usually have their preferred host, they then latch onto other hosts if the preferred host is not available. As such, a cat or dog flea will most likely bite human legs and ankles if a cat is not available.
Can Your Pets Pass Fleas to You?
As mentioned earlier, fleas are very small and their eggs are even smaller. They also produce a large volume of eggs, with the average flea laying up to 2000 fleas in its lifetime. The volume and size of flea eggs make it easy for them to spread around the house. As a result, a flea that latches onto your pet can lead to a full-blown infestation in your house.
On the question of whether your cats can pass fleas to you, that is usually not the case. This is because each species of fleas have its preferred host. Cat and dog fleas enjoy living on hosts with fur-covered skin. This makes it unlikely for them to reproduce on humans. However, they usually bite human ankles and legs to feed, until they are able to latch onto their preferred host.
When it comes to flea infestation, most people believe that feral cats are to be blamed for passing the flea to their pets. This is due to the fact that feral cats are undomesticated and are exposed to an unsafe environment. While it is true that feral cats might spread fleas, domesticated pets can also be responsible. As such, it is important to check your pets after it has come in contact with other animals, whether domesticated or feral.
Also read: Flea & Tick Shampoo for Cats & Kittens
Can Fleas Live in a House Without Pets?
Yes, it is possible for fleas to live in a house without pets. Dogs and cats are not the only furry animals that can be infested with fleas. Other animals include raccoons, squirrels, as well as rodents (rats and mice). Therefore, if any of these animals come to find their way into your home, there is a high possibility of facing a flea infestation. Rats are the biggest culprits here, as they get into the house through a lot of entry points, contaminating food and damaging properties.
How Long Do Pet Fleas Live For?
The lifespan of pet fleas is determined by their living condition. For fleas that are living on a host, you can expect that to last between two weeks to a few months. However, pet fleas that have no host will probably die off in a few days or a number of weeks at most.
Conclusion
A flea infestation can be difficult to deal with, due to its size and propensity to reproduce. It is therefore important to contact a pest control company to take care of any infestation in your home.
Also read: Health Benefits of Owning a Pet Backed by Science
