Shake off these infection spreading parasites!

Adult females lay tiny, smooth, round eggs in the bedding of the host or unfortunately, in furniture, rugs or carpets that the host i.e. the cat or dog has been lying on. She will lay 4-8 eggs a day after each blood meal until there are no more left to lay. The eggs hatch within 2 days to a couple of weeks depending on the climatic conditions. The larvae then pupate within a cocoon they have spun from sand, dust and debris. Below 13 C or above 34 C, the larvae will not develop.

If conditions are good, mature adults emerge from the cocoon within 7 to 14 days but in adverse conditions this can take up to a year. Sensing vibration, heat and carbon dioxide they emerge ready to feed. This could be from any warm-blooded source. This explains why removing a house pet to a boarding kennel and going on holidays will cause the fleas in the house to lay dormant. When the householder opens the front door on their return and steps inside, their legs are covered in hungry fleas!