Unknown to many, there is a distinction between the two species. Fleas on humans bite both children and adults for blood and flea eggs. They can also carry other diseases such as the plague, typhus, tapeworm, and even Rickettsialpox. Cat fleas are smaller than human fleas and only feed on animal blood. Cat fleas cannot transmit any disease to humans or animals. It’s possible you are wondering, is there a real difference between the two? What separates these species? This question common sense tells us the answer is simple. While these two species of flea might look similar, they each have their own unique characteristics with which they were created.
The dark speck that suddenly appears when you walk across the carpet, then disappears, is likely a flea. It’s a bloodsucker, reddish-brown, about one-eighth of an inch long. Using a magnifying glass, you’d see the flea’s body is flattened from side to side and it has long claws on its legs – both are adaptations for traveling between hair shafts. The flea also has spines on its mouth, legs, and back to help prevent it from being groomed off.
Nevertheless, a dog will probably pick off many of the cat fleas it hosts. Cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) are more common on cats, dogs, and humans than dog fleas (Ctenocephalides canis) and human fleas (Pulex irritans). Each has its preferred hosts. The human flea prefers the blood of humans and pigs. Cat and dog fleas prefer cats and dogs, though children can become infested when pets sleep or rest on the same bed. Cat and dog fleas also will infest certain types of wild carnivores, including opossums and raccoons, but not squirrels, rats, or mice. While these two species do not carry human diseases, they can carry tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum) that infect dogs.
Other flea species occasionally encountered by humans include the oriental rat flea (Xenopsylla cheopis) and the northern rat flea (Nosopsyllus fasciatus). These fleas live on Norway rats and roof rats, and are capable of transmitting plague and murine typhus to humans.
FLEAS AND DISEASE
Fleas often probe the skin before taking a blood meal. After 30 minutes, lines or clusters of itchy red marks appear. On sensitive persons, bites develop into raised bumps within 24 hours of being bitten.
Fleas have been associated with humans and other animals for thousands of years. A bacterium (Yersinia pestis) spread by fleas killed 25 million people, more than a quarter of the European population, in 14th century Europe. This was the “black plague.” Epidemics also occurred in Egypt, Africa, China, India, and even the U.S., before the discovery of antibiotics. All told, perhaps 200 million people have died of plague – more than have died in all the wars in history.
Today, the plague occurs worldwide. Each year, a few cases of bubonic plague are recorded in the United States, mostly in the Southwest. The disease is typically carried by wild rodents, and transmitted to the fleas that bite them. The digestive system of an infected flea can become blocked by the rapid reproduction of the bacteria, causing the flea to bite repeatedly in an attempt to avoid starvation. Humans typically contract the disease from the bites of infected fleas, or through skin abrasions that contact the blood of infected animals or the feces of infected fleas.
Bubonic plague occurs most often when persons live or participate in outdoor activities in close proximity to wild rodents, such as rock squirrels, ground squirrels, prairie dogs, chipmunks, and rats. Pets also bring plague-infected fleas into the home. Cats are highly susceptible to the disease. Outbreaks can arise in urban and rural areas, especially where conditions are primitive or unsanitary.
Symptoms of bubonic plague develop within one week of exposure to the bacterium, and may include headache, fever, weakness, fatigue, and painful, swollen lymph nodes known as “buboes.” The disease responds well to antibiotics, but untreated persons may die within a week of showing symptoms.
Another disease transmitted by fleas is murine typhus. In the United States, only a few cases are reported annually. These typically occur in Texas, or result from travel abroad, especially to tropical countries. Transmission of a bacterium (Rickettsia typhi) that causes murine typhus takes place in rat-infested areas, in the same manner as mentioned above for bubonic plague, and by inhalation of airborne flea feces. Headache, body aches, fever, and, occasionally, a rash and other symptoms develop within two weeks after infection. Like plague, murine typhus responds well to treatment with antibiotics.
Differences Between Human Fleas And Cat Fleas
Human fleas are different from cat fleas, and they have different biology, behavior, and habits.
Human fleas are a type of flea that can infest humans, as well as other animals. They also have a different life cycle than cat fleas, which makes them more difficult to get rid of. The most common way to get rid of human fleas is to treat the infested person or animal with an insecticide that kills adult fleas.
Cat fleas are another species of flea, but they do not bite humans. Cat fleas live on cats and dogs and feed on their blood. These are the most common type of fleas found in homes where pets live.
How Do I Know If I Have Human Fleas?
Human fleas are a type of parasite that attaches itself to the skin of humans, feeding off blood and other fluids. They can be found anywhere in the world, but they’re most common in warm climates.
Human fleas are known as “human” fleas because they only feed on human blood—they don’t bite other animals or even other humans.
The first sign you might have human fleas is itching, especially in your lower legs. You may also notice red bumps on your skin that resemble mosquito bites or hives. These bumps will be itchy and painful if you scratch them, which makes it hard to resist scratching them.
Flea bites are usually easy to spot, but human fleas are different: their bite looks like a pinprick with no surrounding redness or swelling.
What Kills Fleas on Humans?
There are many natural methods to kill fleas in humans.
The first, and most obvious, is to use a flea comb. This is an inexpensive, easy-to-use method that can be used in conjunction with other methods to ensure the fleas are gone for good. Flea combs are also great for pets.
Next up is the diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth is a powder made from fossilized algae, it’s safe for humans and pets alike. The fleas eat it and die from dehydration. It’s an effective way to kill off fleas, but it can take quite a bit of time if you don’t want to use chemicals or pesticides.
Another option is lemon juice: simply add some lemon juice to your shampoo or conditioner and wash your hair as normal. It’s important not to oversaturate your hair with lemon juice, so only use enough that will make the scent noticeable (but not overpowering).
Finally, there’s vinegar: vinegar kills fleas by dehydrating them very quickly. Add 1 cup of vinegar to one gallon of water and mix well before adding it directly onto the affected areas of your body where you have fleas present.
How Do I Get Rid of Fleas Permanently?
Getting rid of fleas is a multi-step process that requires both patience and diligence. It is important to understand that even after you have addressed all the areas where fleas may be living and breeding, there will still be eggs and larvae that may hatch later.
It is also important to note that not all flea treatments are created equal. Some products are safer for your pets than others but many of them contain chemicals that can cause health issues for humans as well as animals. It is important to find a product that suits your needs and follow the instructions carefully when applying it.
List Of Products To Control Human Fleas &Cat Fleas
Human fleas and cat fleas are one of the most common pests in the world. They can be found in homes, apartments, schools, and offices. These pests are not only annoying but they can also cause various health problems.
Here is a list of products to control human fleas &cat fleas:
FRONTLINE Plus for Cats and Kittens (1.5 pounds and over) Flea and Tick Treatment, 3 Doses
Price : $38.99
Features :
- Waterproof flea and tick treatment for cats and kittens: Frontline Plus for Cats provides waterproof, fast-acting, long-lasting flea and tick treatment and control for your cat. This product is approved for use on cats and kittens 1.5 lbs and over.
- Break the flea life cycle with frontline: Frontline flea and tick treatment for cats kills adult fleas plus flea eggs and larvae to stop existing infestations and prevent establishment of new infestations.
- Kills fleas and ticks: Frontline flea and tick treatment for cats kills fleas, flea eggs, lice, and ticks. This flea and tick treatment kills ticks, including those that may transmit Lyme disease.
- Trusted flea and tick protection for cats: Frontline Plus for Cats has been trusted by veterinarians for nearly 20 years. Made with 2 tough killing ingredients, fipronil and (S)-methoprene – one to kill adult fleas and ticks and the second to kill flea eggs and larvae – this fast-acting, long-lasting protection provides flea and tick control for cats and kittens 8 weeks and older.
- Lasting flea and tick protection: Frontline’s long-lasting formula is stored in the oil glands of the cat’s skin to give non-stop flea and tick protection for a full 30 days. Frontline flea and tick treatment for cats works non-stop for a full 30 days. A 3-dose supply lasts for 3 months.
Additional Info :
| Color | Green |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 0.5 Inches |
| Width | 4.5 Inches |
| Length | 6 Inches |
| Weight | 0.07054792384 Pounds |
Advantage II 6-Dose Large Cat Flea Prevention, Flea Prevention for Cats, Over 9 Pounds
Price :
Features :
- 6-month supply of advantage II topical large cat flea prevention
- Easy-to-apply and pre-measured flea treatment application tubes, fragrance-free and waterproof after 24 hours
- Advantage II large cat flea prevention kills fleas through contact, meaning fleas don’t have to bite your cat in order to die.Avoid contact with eyes or clothing
- Starts working within 12 hours and protects your cat for up to 30 days. Kills fleas in multiple life stages; Eggs, larvae and adults to break the flea life cycle
- Vet recommended, fragrance free and designed specifically to treat and prevent fleas on cats
Additional Info :
| Color | Blacks & Grays |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 4.25 Inches |
| Width | 1 Inches |
| Length | 6.5 Inches |
| Weight | 0.05 Pounds |
Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Home Spray | Flea Treatment for Dogs and Home | Plant-Based Formula | 32 Ounces
Price : $9.97
Features :
- GENTLE PROTECTION: Vet’s Best Flea & Tick Home Spray uses certified natural ingredients to kill fleas, flea eggs, and ticks on contact.
- PROVEN EFFECTIVE: Whether facing an active infestation or are applying for routine prevention, our spray is scientifically proven effective against pests but gentle enough to use around the whole family.
- CERTIFIED NATURAL OILS: Each steam-distilled essential oil is selected for its potent pest-fighting properties and is 100% Certified Natural.
- TOTAL HOME DEFENSE: Applies easily on surfaces, indoors and out, including dog bedding, crates, furniture, blankets, upholstery, carpets, outdoor surfaces, and more. Also gentle enough to be applied directly on dogs and puppies 12 weeks or older.
- MADE IN THE USA: Our products are proudly manufactured in the USA with quality domestic and internationally sourced ingredients.
Additional Info :
| Color | Green |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 0.81 Inches |
| Width | 3.38 Inches |
| Length | 3.38 Inches |
| Weight | 2 Pounds |
Dog Man: For Whom the Ball Rolls: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #7): From the Creator of Captain Underpants
Price : $7.99
Features :
Additional Info :
| Release Date | 2019-08-13T00:00:00.000Z |
Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs (Small Dog, 5-22 Pounds, 3 Doses)
Price : $38.99
Features :
- Waterproof flea and tick treatment for dogs: Frontline Plus for Dogs provides waterproof, fast-acting, long-lasting flea and tick treatment and control for your dog. This product is approved for use on dogs 5-22 lbs.
- Break the flea life cycle with frontline: Frontline flea and tick treatment for dogs kills adult fleas plus flea eggs and larvae to stop existing infestations and prevent establishment of new infestations.
- Kills fleas and ticks: Frontline flea and tick treatment for dogs kills fleas, flea eggs, lice, and ticks. This flea and tick treatment kills ticks, including those that may transmit Lyme disease.
- Trusted flea and tick protection for dogs: Frontline has been trusted by veterinarians for nearly 20 years. Made with 2 tough killing ingredients, fipronil and (S)-methoprene – one to kill adult fleas and ticks and the second to kill flea eggs and larvae – this fast-acting, long-lasting protection provides flea and tick control for dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older
- Lasting flea and tick protection: Frontline’s long-lasting formula isstored in the oil glands of the pet’s skin to give non-stop flea and tick protection for a full 30 days. Frontline flea and tick treatment for dogs works non-stop for a full 30 days. A 3-dose supply lasts for 3 months.
Additional Info :
| Color | orange |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 4.5 Inches |
| Width | 0.75 Inches |
| Length | 5.75 Inches |
| Weight | 0.8 Pounds |
In Conclusion,
Human fleas and cat fleas are both blood-sucking arthropods that can be found on cats and humans. However, they are not the same species. Human flea eggs hatch within the host’s fur, whereas cat flea eggs must be laid on a suitable substrate in order to survive. Human fleas live off of human blood, while cat fleas do not. Human fleas are usually found near the head of an infested human being, while cat fleas are more likely to be found around the base of the neck area.