Why Are Fleas a Problem?

Fleas are small bloodsucking insects that feed on the blood of humans. They are a reddish brown color and about an eighth of an inch long. Their flat bodies are equipped with long claws on their legs. They are able to jump about 12 inches vertically and about thirteen inches horizontally. Adult fleas are able to carry hundreds of immature fleas on their bodies. Fleas can cause an infestation by feeding on human blood, pet blood, or carpet fibers.

Fleas are present in 95% of the world’s population as immature stages. They develop into adults when conditions are warm and moist. After laying their eggs, they will jump from their host to another. As a result, other pets in the home may become infested with fleas.

In addition to their bites, fleas can carry diseases. Infestations caused by fleas are most common in homes where pets live. Fleas can live on any type of fabric, including clothes. They can also infest items that have been brought into the infested areas.

The adult flea lives for several days to several weeks on the host. It sucks twice a day, and then lays about twenty to thirty eggs daily. Over the course of her lifetime, she may lay several hundred eggs. Flea eggs fall off the pet and may be transferred into your home, carpet, or bedding.