Cat Flea

Natural Habitat

Found globally; typically lives on host animals like cats, dogs, and wildlife, or in nesting/sleeping areas including carpets and furniture

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophages; adults feed exclusively on the blood of mammals, while larvae feed on organic debris and 'flea dirt' (adult fecal matter)

Behavior Patterns

Wingless but capable of jumping long distances; they undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). Adults spend most of their lives on the host.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include skin irritation and dermatitis in pets and humans. They can transmit tapeworms, murine typhus, and bartonellosis (cat scratch disease). They have no significant ecosystem benefits.

Identified on: 5/4/2026