This publication is primarily concerned with the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis, which is by far the most common flea species found on both dogs and cats and in our homes. Control methods discussed in this publication are generally effective against any other flea species that may be occasionally found on our pets or in our homes. Newly emerged fleas are very dark brown. Thereafter, their colors are somewhat lighter. Actively reproducing females are light brown to orange.
Fleas develop by complete metamorphosis.
The reproductive cycle of the female flea begins 24 to 36 hours after her first blood meal, when she lays her first egg. A female cat flea can lay as many as 40 eggs per day and over 2,000 eggs in her lifetime. Egg numbers vary because the reproductive capacity of the flea is dependent upon environmental and host-related factors, such as the extent of grooming activity by the host, temperature and humidity. The immature stages. The eggs are not sticky and easily roll off the fur of the host when laid.