Fleas
Order (Siphonaptera)
CAT FLEA (Ctenocephalides
felis)
HUMAN FLEA (Pulex
irritans)
There is over 1,000 species of fleas around the
world, with about 50 species in the UK. The infamous rat flea
(Xenopsylla cheopis) spread the Plague (Black Death)
throughout Europe in the Middle Ages and is probably the most
feared, yet still exists today in parts of the world. The most
common flea that people come into contact with now, is the cat
flea.
Adult fleas live exclusively as parasites feeding
on the blood of their hosts; humans, dogs, cats, rabbits, birds
etc. their not fussy and can easily change hosts.
The female fleas lays eggs which hatch a few days later into
legless larvae, these shed their skin 2-3 times before pupating.
The pupa period can vary and when the adult flea does emerge
it can remain within its silken cocoon for quite some time.
It is usually activated by the vibration of a passing host and
can spring accurately with its highly developed rear legs, towards
its new host and first blood meal.
Flea treatment can be aided by a thorough vacuuming,
especially around pets bedding and will pick up all stages of
the flea. All pets should also be treated, contact a vet for
advice.
Since identification is important, before commencing
any treatment you should contact us
for advice on bitting insect treatment and Control.
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