Differences Between Fleas on Cats & Dogs

Cat and dog fleas are two distinct species with slightly varying morphology. The irritating effects, familiar habitat and blood-sucking habits of these pests are the same, sending pet owners into a panicked frenzy of cleaning and grooming when an infestation is spotted.

  1. Types

    • There are two fleas that commonly infest cats and dogs, Ctenocephalides felis and Ctenocephalides canis, respectively.

    Considerations

    • While each type of flea has a primary host, C. felis is also common among dogs. The reverse is not true concerning C. canis and cats.

    Life Cycle

    • Both varieties of flea go through four distinct life cycles. The egg, larval, pupal and imago stages of life are common to all fleas. The appearance of both types of flea differ very slightly in each of these phases.

    Significance

    • Both C. felis and C. canis can harbor diseases that are zoonotic in nature, or able to be transmitted to humans. In addition, the saliva of these pests can cause severe allergic reactions in some pets.

    Fun Fact

    • Fleas spend approximately 3/4 of their life on areas other than their host. These other areas include, but are not limited to, bedding, flooring, upholstery and grass.