What Fleas Bite Humans

Fleas are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. In the United States, the most common species is the cat flea, but they can bite humans as well. Some people confuse these parasitic insects with “sand fleas,” which are actually tiny crustaceans that do not live in our homes.

Adult fleas can survive without feeding for months. Their mandibles are sharp and cut skin. The saliva they release contains anticoagulants that encourage the flow of blood to the site of the bite. After feeding, female fleas will lay eggs. The eggs are oval and light-coloured, and the larvae hatch within a few weeks. Eventually, they emerge from their cocoons, prompted by footsteps.

Fleas have specially adapted sucking mouthparts, which allow them to penetrate skin and fur. They can also spread a variety of diseases and parasites. These parasites can cause serious problems in humans, including tapeworms and anemia. If you are prone to flea infestations, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

When fleas bite humans, the most common location they’ll bite is the skin around the feet and legs. These areas are vulnerable to scratching, which may result in secondary infections. Those who experience frequent flea bites may develop a hypersensitivity to them.