Can Fleas Hold Water?

Fleas can survive in water but cannot swim. This is due to the waxy coating on their bodies. Nevertheless, they are able to float under the water surface because of the surface tension of the water. However, once this coating is removed, the flea will sink. In addition, they have no control over their direction. Instead, they drift till they reach a dry surface. If they can jump, they can escape from the water.

If you have ever wondered whether fleas can survive under water, you will be amazed to learn that they do. In fact, some fleas have the ability to live in water for a week or even a day. This is due to the waxy cuticles on their bodies, which prevent water from penetrating the trachea. In addition, they are able to live in water for at least seven percent of their lifetimes without feeding. Therefore, it is important to know how to get rid of fleas and not to harm the host by touching them.

To get rid of fleas, you can try using dishwashing liquids. These are effective since they contain surfactants that lower the surface tension of the water. Dawn is the most popular brand for this purpose. However, you can also use Jet-Dry, which contains a higher concentration of surfactant and does not foam.