Where Can Fleas Survive?
WouterFleas are insects that live indoors and thrive in warm environments. In order to survive, they need a host animal. They lay eggs and grow into larvae, which feed on organic debris. They then hide out for long periods and develop into pupae. Pupae can survive for several months, so an infestation may take several months before you notice a flea problem.
Fleas are not usually visible to humans, but they can still infest houses that do not have pets. Typically, they will enter a house through an animal’s fur, so if you have an infested animal, they will likely have left their eggs in the home.
Fleas spend most of their lives on surfaces, though they do have the ability to jump. The best way to get rid of fleas is to vacuum your home frequently. Try to vacuum the entire house at least once a week, but focus on the rooms your pet frequents the most. If you find any stragglers in your home, be sure to spray the room with a pesticide. If possible, you should empty the vacuum bag outside to avoid reintroduction of fleas.
Fleas lay up to 2,000 eggs in their lifetime. Female fleas lay eggs after they take a blood meal from a host. Without a blood meal, they are unable to reproduce. Flea eggs usually hatch within two to ten days, but in warm, humid climates, fleas can survive for weeks or months. Once they reach adulthood, a flea is able to hunt and mate.
