Do Fleas Need Pets to Survive?
WouterMany people wonder, “Do fleas need pets to survive?” The answer is a resounding “yes.” These insects have a life cycle that repeats itself with only minor differences between species. They need a host to lay their eggs. Without a blood meal, fleas cannot reproduce, and their population would rapidly decline. The good news is that fleas are easily preventable and can be removed once they are discovered.
Fleas have a short life cycle compared to other insects, a two to three-week life span from egg to adult. Adult cat and dog fleas can live up to one year in ideal conditions. Without a host, they can survive for only one week.
Fleas need a warm, moist environment to thrive. This means that they prefer places with high humidity and vegetation. They do not like open grass or grassy areas, so they prefer to live in trees and shrubs. Keeping shrubs and trees pruned can help limit their habitat. Keeping your house clean and dry will help minimize flea populations. But remember, fleas do not like a cold climate, so if you find a flea infestation, take steps to eradicate it.
Although fleas prefer homes with pets, they can also live in households without pets. Fleas usually come into a house through the carpet and furniture. They can also come from an animal that has been infested. The last thing you want is to bring in an infested pet bed to your home.
