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Fleas in New Jersey – Identification, Bites & Treatment

What Are Fleas?​

Flea microscope

Fleas are tiny, wingless insects belonging to the order Siphonaptera. Known for their ability to jump great distances, fleas are parasites that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. The most common flea species affecting homes in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware is the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), which infests both cats and dogs.

Are Fleas Harmful?​​

  • Bites: Flea bites are itchy, red, and often appear in clusters on legs and ankles.

  • Disease Transmission: Fleas can spread tapeworms, murine typhus, and historically were carriers of the plague.

  • Pet Health: Cause anemia, skin irritation, and allergic dermatitis in dogs and cats.

  • Rapid Reproduction: A single flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day, leading to explosive infestations.

flea

Flea Control​​

Fleas are one of the most difficult pests to eliminate without professional help.

  • Inspection: Identify infested areas, often where pets rest or sleep.

  • Treatment for Pets: Coordinated care with veterinarians for flea medication.

  • Home Treatments: Professional sprays, dusts, and growth regulators break the flea life cycle.

  • Vacuuming & Cleaning: Frequent vacuuming and washing pet bedding help reduce populations.

  • Exterior Treatments: Yards and shaded areas may require treatment to eliminate flea hotspots.

flea-on-material

Types of Fleas in NJ

  • Cat Flea: Most widespread species, infests cats, dogs, and homes.

  • Dog Flea: Less common but similar in behavior to cat fleas.

  • Human Flea: Rare, occasionally bites humans but usually linked to rodents.

Fleas Appearance​

  • Size: 1–3 mm long (tiny, about the size of a pinhead).

  • Color: Reddish-brown, shiny, with hard bodies.

  • Body: Flattened sideways, allowing easy movement through fur.

  • Legs: Long, powerful hind legs for jumping.

Fleas Habitat​

  • Pets: Found in fur, bedding, and collars.

  • Indoors: Carpets, upholstery, cracks in floors, and pet resting areas.

  • Outdoors: Shaded, moist areas in yards, especially where pets rest.

Fleas Diet​

  • Adults: Feed exclusively on blood from mammals and birds.

  • Larvae: Feed on organic debris, flea feces (“flea dirt”), and dried blood.

Fleas Life Cycle​​

  • Fleas undergo complete metamorphosis:

  • Eggs: Laid on pets, fall into carpets and bedding.

  • Larvae: Worm-like, feed on debris and flea dirt.

  • Pupae: Cocoon stage; highly resistant to pesticides.

  • Adults: Emerge and immediately seek a blood meal.

  • The entire cycle can take as little as 2 weeks, making infestations grow rapidly.

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