HomeVet Return to menu. General Flea Information Fleas are small, brown or black, wingless insects with flattened bodies. Several types of fleas infest the haircoats of animals, and some may occasionally feed on people. These blood-sucking insects cause considerable irritation and distress to infested pets. Severe infestations may lead to anemia from blood loss.
Fleas spread the common dog and cat tapeworm, and carry several viral and bacterial diseases.
Flea bites also cause skin allergies, rashes and sores on both pets and their owners. The best places to look for fleas on your pet are the hindquarters, base of the tail, stomach and groin regions. Sometimes no fleas are found but only tiny, black granules that resemble black pepper. To distinguish this material from dirt, smudge it on white paper or add a drop of water to it. If you see a reddish-brown color, your pet has fleas, even if you can find none.