You are in Medical Library . Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors Fleas prefer dog and cat hosts but in the absence of a preferred host will use humans or other available animals as a host. Pet owners may not be bothered by fleas until their pet is away for an extended period of time and the fleas, in the absence of their normal host, begin to bite the owners.
Bites frequently occur around the waist, ankles, armpits, and in the bend of the elbows and knees.
No testing is necessary. The objective of treatment is to break the flea life cycle by treating the home, the pets, and the outside environment with insecticide . Home foggers and flea collars are not always effective. Birds and fish must be protected during spraying. If home treatments are ineffective, professional extermination may be needed.