About Fleas & Ticks
Fleas are a common problem for many pet owners. They can cause
discomfort for both domestic animals and their families. However, few
people fully understand the nature of these pests. For example, most
people do not realize that there are actually more than 2,000 distinct
species of fleas. By understanding more about fleas, you will be better
able to handle a flea problem if and when it does arise.
The term “flea” is actually the common name for insects in the
Siphonaptera order. Fleas cannot fly as they posses no wings. However,
their long legs make it easy for them to jump great distances. In fact,
fleas have the greatest jumping ability of any known animal. The
distance they can travel in relation to their body size is quite
substantial. Fleas range from 1.5 to 3.3 mm in length, but can jump up
to 200 times this distance. They are usually dark in color, which helps
them blend into the hair, feathers, and fur.
Fleas are considered parasites because they feed off the blood of
mammals and birds. Their tube-link mouths are well-suited for this task.
Since they are not particularly picky about what they feed on, fleas are
able to survive in a wide array of environments. Additionally, another
reason why fleas are so hard to get rid of is their hard body structure.
Fleas can survive a great deal of pressure. T hat is why scratching does
not destroy them. They can also live in a variety of environments,
although they prefer moderately warm temperatures and high humidity.
Like other insects, fleas go through various stages of growth. They
reproduce via eggs and then progress through the larva and pupa phases
of development. Only adult fleas, which make up roughly five percent of
the total flea population, specifically feed on blood, and feeding must
occur prior to reproduction. When eggs are laid, they usually are placed
on the host and roll off during sleep. Thus, homes can become breeding
grounds for fleas even after the pests themselves have been destroyed.
Flea bites can be rather bothersome to humans and animals. They
generally result in a raised, itchy bump on the skin. In more severe
cases, an uncomfortable rash may develop. More serious problems can also
occur. Perhaps the most common ailment associated with fleas is Flea
Allergy Dermatitis (FAD). FAD is an allergic reaction to chemicals found
in flea saliva. It can last for up to a week and result in a severe skin
reaction and, occasionally, secondary infection at the site. Some more
serious diseases can also be transmitted through fleas in rare cases,
and fleas can give worm infections to pets.
For such tiny creatures, fleas can cause some big problems. In fact,
pet owners spend upwards of $1 billion annually to control fleas.
Although there are many methods to fight these insects, they are clearly
resilient. However, by understanding these pests you will be better
equipped to fight them in your home and on your pet. |
