Cat Flea (or Dog Flea)

Found on domestic and wild mammals, and within indoor environments where pets reside (carpets, bedding, furniture).

Adults feed exclusively on the blood of mammals and birds using piercing-mouthparts.

Wingless parasites adapted for jumping over long distances onto hosts. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult) and pupae can remain dormant in the environment for extended periods until stimulated by vibrations or warmth from a passing host.

Risks include painful, itchy bites that can cause flea allergy dermatitis in pets and humans. They can also transmit tapeworms and certain bacterial pathogens. They offer no notable benefits to humans.