Fleas are tiny, wingless insects that feed off of the blood of mammals and birds. Our primary concern is 2 aptly named species: the cat flea and the dog flea. Their names can be deceptive though, since the cat flea is also the primary ectoparasite of domestic dogs as well. Fleas can often bite humans as well but will not be able to sustain themselves over extended periods of time. Eggs (20 or so) are laid n the host and can develop within 1-2 weeks. Eggs often fall off of the pets and onto their bedding or surrounding areas. Adult fleas can live 30-90 days under ideal conditions. Fleas can jump 7 inches high which is impressive in itself but in comparison that would be like an adult human jumping over 100 feet high.
Prevention against fleas is best. Topical treatments and second generation pet flea collars are reasonably priced and offer coverage from 30 days up to 8 months depending on the product.
Treatment is most often accomplished with direct application using an adulticide to kill the mature fleas as well as a growth regulator which will sterilize eggs when they hatch. Vacuuming surfaces several times a day for a week after treatment will also be necessary. Flea bombs generally do not work for long periods of time and can be very dangerous because the contents are highly flammable and combustible.
