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Description: Adult cat fleas are about 1/8-inch long
and range in color from brownish-black to black. The thin body
has several segments and three pairs of legs. The longer back
legs contribute to the flea's jumping ability. Flea larvae appear
as small white worms about twice the size of the adult flea.
Next, the flea larvae form cocoons. The cocooned pupae then emerge
as adult fleas.
Habits: This insect by no means limits itself to cats.
Cat fleas are found on dogs, cats, opossums, rats, other rodents
and humans. Once on its host, an adult flea spends it time feeding
(on blood), mating and laying eggs. Flea eggs usually fall or
are shaken off the host. That's why larvae and pupae are found
in cracks and crevices around pet sleeping areas and along pets'
travel paths. Flea larvae feed on dried fecal blood left behind
by the adult flea. Both larvae and cocooned pupae thrive in areas
of high moisture.
Potential hazards: Flea bites cause discomfort to pets
and humans. A large flea infestation can affect a pet's health.
Fleas have been linked to transmission of several diseases, most
notable of which are the historic "plague" and murine
typhus.
Control: Identify the level of flea infestation, and
help locate and eliminate flea breeding areas, such as pet bedding
and paths. The use of an insecticide and/or insect growth regulator
(IGR) may be necessary. Indoors, all fabric and upholstered items
should be removed and floors thoroughly vacuumed before treatment.
The vacuum bag should be disposed of immediately. All floors,
carpets and pet resting areas must be treated. Outdoors, a spot
treatment may be advised around pet resting areas. If the infestation
is severe, an overall yard treatment may be recommended.
Prevention:
- Regularly clean pet resting areas and wash pet bedding.
- Frequently vacuum rooms which pets visit to remove flea eggs,
larvae and adults which may be lingering in carpet.
- Keep pets well-groomed. Consider the use of long-lasting
flea collars.
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