When Fleas Bite Do They Die?
WouterFleas can live up to a year, but in ideal conditions, they can live for two years or more. They need an animal host to develop, where they lay eggs. The eggs then hatch into larvae that feed on organic debris for a couple of weeks. After that, they hide away for long periods, during which time they cannot be seen. They then move on to the pupae stage, where they live in a cocoon for several months. This is the last stage of their life cycle, after which they die.
Flea eggs hatch into white, legless larvae, about an eighth of an inch long. They feed on the blood of adult fleas and organic debris. After they hatch, they spin a silken cocoon, which they use as a protective cover and camouflage. This stage can last up to a year, and the eggs can remain on the pet for many months.
Fleas are not a danger to humans, but they can infest furniture, pets, and bedding. Since they cannot jump high enough to get into your bed without a pet, you should take care of the bedding and vacuum often. The adult fleas lay eggs in carpeting and will not come out until you vacuum.
Vacuuming daily can help speed up the process. It removes fleas from all stages of development. Vacuuming simulates the cues a pet gives to fleas, causing them to awaken and emerge. Vacuuming will also cause pre-emerging fleas to emerge, which forces them out of their cocoon.
