Cat Fleas Vs. Dog Fleas

Fleas are external parasites which are found attached to the skin of their hosts. Flea bites on cats and dogs is a common problem. But do you know that the most common flea found on dogs and cats is the cat flea? Fleas aggravate both you and your pet. Not only cats, dogs, and humans, but many other animals are also attacked by cat and dog fleas. Humans are mainly attacked by cat fleas.

Cat Fleas and Dog Fleas

The cat and dog fleas are almost similar in appearance and biology. Cat and dog fleas, both species can live on both cats and dogs. The cat flea or (Ctenocephalides felis) and the dog flea or (Ctenocephalides canis) are the most common species found in and around homes. Summer is the favorable season for their growth.

The difference between cat fleas and dog fleas is very minute. The female in both the species is about 2.5 mm long. The male is slightly smaller than the female. The head of the female cat flea is almost twice as long as high, while that of the female dog flea is less than twice as long as high. In both dog fleas and cat fleas, the genal comb and the pronotal comb consist of 8 pairs of spines. A microscopic examination can make it clear that the first 2 anterior spines of the genal comb of the cat flea are almost equal in length, while the first spine is distinctly shorter in the dog flea.

While considering cat fleas vs. dog fleas, it is necessary to know that the larvae of both species are nearly twice as long as the adults. Particles of dry blood, excrement, and various organic substances collected in the infested premises, provide sufficient food for fast growth of these larvae. In case of very heavy infestations, large number of grayish larvae and white eggs give the site a 'salt-and-pepper' appearance that helps identify the infestation. You can remove the adult fleas on dogs and cats, but the eggs will remain there only. The eggs hatch in about 14 days, depending upon the humidity. A flea is alive for less than two months, but a female flea usually lays over 2,000 eggs. Another surprising fact about fleas is that fleas are able to leap 100 times their own height! They jump vertically for 5 - 6 inches (about 15 cm), and can attach themselves to skin or clothing.

In North America cat flea infestations are common while dog fleas are most common in Europe. Dog fleas do appear in North America but very rarely. Flea infestation can give rise to secondary infections. A veterinarian can help you decide upon flea bite treatment for your pet. As the eggs can drop from the host and can infest carpets, bedding and furniture, you may need a pest control expert. He will tell you how to kill fleas in house.

Flea Bite Dermatitis

Animals are allergic to flea saliva and so, cat flea allergy is the main reason behind flea bite dermatitis. The symptoms of flea bite dermatitis include swelling, severe itchiness, tiny red bumps on the skin, thickened skin, reddening of the skin, hair loss, bald patches on the skin, etc. Flea bites on humans are also common. Use of pesticides and flea traps is necessary for proper flea control.

Cleanliness is extremely essential if you want to avoid flea bite dermatitis. Pet owners need to inspect their pets for fleas regularly. A medicated bath, regular use of flea preventive, proper combing, use of prescribed antihistamine or injections and prescription drugs can help control fleas. Pets with thick fur need extra care. I hope you find the above information useful and you would take the necessary precautions to prevent flea bite problems.