Biology
After mating, the female flea lays several hundred eggs in batches after each blood meal in the cat's fur, bedding, resting site and in areas where the cat is to be found. The eggs are small (0.5 mm) white and oval in shape. From the egg emerges the larval stage which is again white in colour, legless but covered in large bristles. The larvae are not blood suckers but feed on general organic debris which is to be found in the lair of the cat. When mature the flea larva is about 5 mm long and it spins a cocoon of silk which very quickly gets covered in a large amount of dust and debris. The pupae develops within the silken cocoon and when triggered by suitable stimuli such as vibration, the adults emerge to feed on the cat.
Significance
Fleas can be carriers of disease or may transmit parasitic worms. Both cat and dog fleas are intermediate hosts of the dog tapeworm which can sometimes be transmitted to man. Generally, in the UK fleas are not responsible for the transmission of disease. However, they are still objectionable due to the bites they inflict. Fleabites are identified as a small dark red spot surrounded by a reddened area. The bite persists for one or two days and maybe intensely irritating.
How they live
The eggs hatch after one week into white thread-like larvae. The larvae thrive in dark, humid places such as carpets and animal bedding.
After two or three weeks when they are fully-grown the larvae spin a cocoon and pupate. The adult usually emerges within seven weeks but can remain as a pupa throughout the winter only emerging when triggered by the movement close by of a suitable host. This explains the occasional mass attacks which take place in homes that have been empty for a long time. The complete life cycle will normally last four weeks but may take longer at low temperatures.
Flea treatment advice
Please follow the instructions outlined below prior to having treatment domestic flea problems:
- Remove all small items from the floor
- Thoroughly vacuum clean the house and throw away the bag. If using a bagless vacuum cleaner clean out the chamber with disinfectant.
- All the carpeted areas of the house will be sprayed.
- The property must then be vacated for at least 4 hours. All pets must be removed too.
- After the treatment do not vacuum for at least 14 days.
Practical advice
- Provide your cat or dog with a flea collar.
- Check your animal for fleas on a regular basis.
- Treat your cat or dog with an approved flea product.
- Brush your cat or dog thoroughly with a flea comb.
- Don't forget to treat your pet's basket/bedding area.
- Maintain a good level of housekeeping.
Control
Treatment consists of identifying the source of the infestation, ie: the host animal(s), and if appropriate treating it with a suitable veterinary product. Such a treatment should not be carried out by a pest control technician but by the owner of the animal or a veterinarian. A residual insecticide should then be applied to areas frequented by the animal.
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