What do fleas do on cats? - briefly
Fleas are external parasites that feed on the blood of cats. They can cause itching, irritation, and even transmit diseases like bartonellosis (cat scratch disease) and tapeworms.
What do fleas do on cats? - in detail
Fleas, particularly the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), are small, wingless insects that feed exclusively on blood, making cats and other mammals their primary hosts. The lifecycle of a flea begins with eggs laid by an adult female, which can fall off the host animal into the environment, such as bedding or carpets. These eggs hatch into larvae, which then develop into pupae before emerging as adult fleas.
When a flea is on a cat, it undergoes several stages of development and behavior. Initially, upon finding a suitable host, the adult flea will bite into the skin to draw blood. Fleas have powerful legs that allow them to jump long distances, enabling them to quickly move from one part of the cat's body to another or even transfer between hosts. The bites themselves can cause irritation and itching in cats, leading to excessive scratching, grooming, and sometimes even hair loss.
Fleas do not merely survive on cats; they also reproduce while on their host. Female fleas lay eggs in the cat's fur, which then fall off into the environment as mentioned earlier. This continuous cycle of feeding, reproduction, and development can lead to a significant infestation if left unchecked.
In addition to causing discomfort and potential skin issues for cats, fleas are also vectors for diseases. They can transmit parasites such as tapeworms and bacteria like Bartonella henselae, which causes cat-scratch disease in humans. This highlights the importance of regular flea control measures to protect both pets and their owners from these pests.
Effective flea management involves a combination of strategies, including regular grooming, the use of flea collars or spot-on treatments, and maintaining a clean environment to reduce the likelihood of infestations. By understanding the behavior and lifecycle of fleas on cats, pet owners can take proactive steps to safeguard their pets' health and wellbeing.