Cat Fleas

What do cat fleas look like?

Cat fleas are very tiny parasitic pests that are known for being the most widespread species of flea in the United States. An adult cat flea only grows to between 1/12th and 1/6th of an inch in length. Despite their small size, cat fleas are difficult to “catch” and “squish” because their body is very hard and their large hind legs allow them to quickly jump out of harm’s way. In fact, cat fleas can jump 150 times their own height. A cat flea’s body is shiny and a dark brownish-red color and they are wingless. Their mouths, legs, and backs are covered in spines to help them attach themselves to their host and maintain a good grip.

Are cat fleas dangerous?

Yes, cat fleas are considered dangerous. They spread disease and can cause allergic reactions and other health concerns. While extremely rare, cat fleas are responsible for spreading the plague. They also transmit more common disease like murine typhus, a bacterial disease, to humans after feeding on the blood of an infected rat. And they transfer tapeworms. Flea saliva can cause an allergic reaction in some people and pets; the allergic reaction can cause itchy dermatitis, leading to a secondary infection which requires medical attention. In pets, dermatitis can also cause the loss of fur. If your pets have a severe flea infestation, the constant feeding on their blood can cause anemia, leading to your pet becoming very sick.

Do cat fleas bite?

Yes, fleas bite in order to feed on the blood of their host. Fleas feed on the blood of their host using their specialized piercing mouthparts. Flea bites are usually extremely itchy.

Why do I have a cat flea problem?

Cat fleas feed on the blood of many different hosts including cats, dogs, wild animals, some livestock, and people. Cat fleas can become a problem on any property and in any home whether or not pets are present. Cat fleas are usually introduced to properties by wild animals. If you own pets, they can easily come into contact with fleas when spending time outside and then can bring the fleas inside where they can quickly infest your home. Fleas can also find their way into homes on the clothing of adults or children that have spent time outside, and they can be accidentally introduced into homes on used furniture or rugs that have been purchased. In addition, if your home or apartment was previously a home to pets, flea larvae or eggs could be hiding throughout your home, waiting for the conditions to be right to develop into blood-feeding adults

How do I get rid of cat fleas?

The most effective way to solve a problem with cat fleas is to contact a professional pest control expert. At Pro Active Pest Control, our pros will partner with you, perform a thorough inspection, and create a pest control program to exclude cat fleas. We use the most modern pest control methods and products possible to control cat fleas and other common pests in and around your home or business. To learn more about implementing our 100% guaranteed pest control services into your Roseville, El Dorado Hills, Rancho Cordova, Lincoln, Rocklin, or Sacramento home or business, contact Pro Active Pest Control today.

How can I prevent future problems with cat fleas?

Preventing problems with cat fleas can be a difficult task, but there are some things you can do around your home to deter them and prevent them from finding their way inside. If you own pets, one of the best ways you can prevent problems with cat fleas is to make sure that they are on a year-round flea preventative prescribed by their veterinarian. It is also a good idea to regularly vacuum your home, especially the areas where your pets spend most of their time and wash your pets’ bedding often. Deter wild animals from your property by removing bird feeders and other animal feeders. After you, your kids, or pets have spent time outdoors it is always a good idea to inspect your clothing and your pet’s fur for fleas before coming back inside.