Can You Get Fleas Without a Pet?

Although most people think of fleas as a problem that affects their pets, it is possible to get fleas without a pet. Fleas are very resourceful parasites that move from one host to another. Their six legs allow them to jump to different places easily.

Fleas can get into a home by escaping from the host animal, usually a dog or cat. However, fleas can also be introduced into a home by other animals, including raccoons and squirrels. Fleas can even hitchhike on clothing and jump on people.

Fleas prefer to feed on the blood of cats and dogs, but they can feed on humans as well. They can invade a house in a matter of minutes. A single flea can lay up to 50 eggs a day. The best way to avoid becoming infested is to keep your house clean and check for fleas regularly. When you find a flea infestation, you can wash yourself and your family frequently to prevent it from spreading to other areas.

Fleas are easily recognized by their bites. The bites usually appear as small red dots. The bites may occur in groups of two or three. You might even notice them jumping onto your white socks or carpet. These creatures are approximately 1/8 of an inch long and have a flat, red body.