Cat Flea, Ctenocephalides felis (Bouché)

Abstract

This document provides an in-depth profile of the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis, detailing its life cycle, distribution, and medical significance. The cat flea is the most common domestic flea in the United States, requiring a fresh blood meal to reproduce. The life cycle includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, typically lasting 30 to 75 days. Cat fleas can transmit diseases and cause allergic reactions in pets and humans. Effective management involves cultural, chemical, and biological control methods to eliminate fleas from pets, homes, and yards.

Keywords

• Fleas