![]() ![]() You should seek medical advice if you become concerned. If the bites persist, a pest management professional can identify what type of infestation you might have. Finding evidence of the actual bug is best. Noting how frequently the bites occur, and at what times of day or night, can help narrow down the culprits. Similar red spots can also be the result of a different type of insect bite or skin reaction. It is difficult to tell the difference between a flea bite and a mosquito bite. Allergic reactions can take up to 24 hours to occur. The severity of the itch depends on the person being bit, but most experience extreme itchiness those who are allergic may also develop hives or rashes. But how do you know if you've been bitten by a flea? What do flea bites look like?įlea bites cause red, round-shaped bumps on the skin, surrounded by a halo shape. The most common type of fleas are cat fleas, but human fleas exist too. Throughout history they have been blamed for diseases and plagues because of their tendency to switch from feeding on hosts like rats or dogs to feeding on humans. They are easiest to see on your pet’s belly.Fleas are small, wingless parasites that depend on the blood of other animals for nutrition. You may see them moving around on your pet’s skin but probably won’t see them nestling on top of fur. Fleas move very quickly and can jump as high as 13 inches. Their bodies are tough and can be hard to squish. They range from light reddish-brown to black in color. If your home is infested, you may see them in carpets or bedding. Fleas are tiny, but they’re not microscopic. Pupae can remain alive and ready to hatch for up to 1 year under warm, humid conditions. Their cocoons are sticky, so dust can get caught on them. ![]() Flea larvae grow a cocoon to become incubating pupae. You may be able to see black matter inside their bodies, especially under a microscope. Flea larvae look like small, translucent worms or maggots. Flea eggs are clear to white in color and resemble dandruff flakes or salt. They can remain there until they hatch, 1 to 12 days later. They may land on any surface, including your bed. The oval-shaped eggs are loose and can roll around. Female fleas lay up to eight eggs after each feeding. If your pet is scratching, they may have a flea infestation.įleas don’t live long lives, but they do go through several stages of development: Fleas can travel into homes on the soles of shoes or on clothing. If left untreated, your pet may develop skin infections or a rash from constantly breaking their skin while scratching.Įven if your pet is housebound and never goes outside, they can still get fleas. ![]() This causes widespread itching and discomfort. Your pet may also appear to gnaw or bite their own skin.įleas can infest an animal’s entire body. It can be hard to see flea bites on your pet, so you may want to pay attention to whether your pet is scratching. Fleas often excrete while biting and may release 10 or more drops of flea dirt while they feed. Fleas with a host nearby consume much more blood than they need to survive daily. If your pet has fleas and sleeps with you, you’ll likely see or feel flea dirt on your sheets.įlea dirt is primarily made up of the host’s blood. Flea dirt, or residue, looks like tiny black dots. Getty Images Residue (flea dirt)Īll insects poop, including fleas. Share on Pinterest Flea bites appear as red itchy dots, typically along your shins, ankles, or feet. signs of anaphylaxis, including shortness of breath.You may have additional side effects if you’re allergic to fleas or have a strong reaction to the bites. Red dots on your face or chest may also be a sign of fleas. If your pet likes to sleep near your head, you may see bites in your elbow bends and on your upper body as well. They may bite behind your knees, where skin is warm and moist. Unlike bed bugs - which typically bite people on the face, arms, and neck - fleas tend to nibble on your lower body parts. In some instances, flea bites may have a red halo surrounding their center. Multiple flea bites often appear as a straight line on your lower limbs. If you notice itchy red dots along your shins, ankles, and feet, you may have a flea infestation. Signs of fleas in your bed include: Bites Adult fleas can jump long distances and may make their way onto bedding. If your pet has fleas, the eggs may roll off their fur and onto your bed, where they’ll hatch. They won’t take up residence in your bed, but they will leave evidence that they’ve been there. Fleas prefer to nestle in fur or feathers, rather than skin or hair.įleas like to live on a blood host. If they have access, they may also bite birds.įleas bite people, too, though they won’t stay on you for long. Either kind will bite dogs, cats, rabbits, and other furry mammals. The most common types in the United States are dog fleas ( Ctenocephalides canis) and cat fleas ( Ctenocephalides felis). ![]()
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