Do Fleas Come Out in the Cold?
WouterFleas and ticks do not hibernate. They will remain active throughout the winter in areas where they can find organic matter and shelter. This could include a pet’s bedding, your storage shed, or garage. Fleas and ticks will lay their eggs and pupae on your pet and survive for several months before hatching into adult fleas or ticks.
Fleas are a problem year-round in many parts of the US, so you may find it difficult to prevent an infestation. However, prolonged freezing temperatures kill fleas. They can survive at temperatures as low as 37 degrees Fahrenheit. If you suspect that your dog or cat has fleas, you should use preventative measures and check the weather forecast to make sure that your house is free of fleas or ticks.
Fleas are opportunistic, and will often come into your home on your pet. During the winter months, they will look for warmer places, which is why they are active. During the cold months, you can use flea sprays to keep fleas from establishing a permanent presence in your home.
When temperatures drop below freezing, fleas will emerge. Snow fleas, for example, are most active during the winter months, but they do not enter dormancy like other insects do. They produce their own antifreeze, a protein rich in amino acids called glycine. This helps them avoid forming ice crystals and continue to feed on organic materials.
