Most flea infestations are caused by the common Cat Flea. Fleas are wingless insects with legs designed to jump and measure approximately 2mm at maturity. Fleas are parasites feeding on warm blooded animals after which the female lays her eggs.
After laying eggs on her host the fleas eggs will be transferred to floors and animal bedding where they develop into larvae. At this stage the larvae mainly feeds on the blood enriched faeces of the adult fleas. Once fully developed the flea awaits a passing host and reproduces at 4 weeks.
Fleas are most often found in the busiest rooms of a house especially where there are pets, carpets, beds and soft furnishing which complete the ideal habitat. Although there is little evidence that fleas in the UK spread disease the bites cause irritation.
