Dog Flea (or Cat Flea)

Found worldwide, primarily in the bedding, carpets, and fur of domestic pets such as dogs and cats.

Obligate hematophages; adults feed exclusively on the blood of mammals (primarily dogs and cats, but also humans).

Fleas are wingless, jumping insects with flattened bodies designed for moving through fur. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult) and spend most of their adult lives on a host animal.

Risks include severe skin irritation (flea allergy dermatitis), transmission of tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum), and potential transmission of bacterial infections. They offer no ecological benefits to domestic environments.