Do pet fleas bite?

What are fleas?

Fleas are tiny, wingless insects that survive by feeding on the blood of our cats and dogs. They have powerful legs that allow them to jump impressive distances, which makes them particularly difficult to catch. 

Not 100% sure your pet has fleas? Find out what dog fleas look like or how to spot cat fleas.

Do fleas bite humans?

Yes. Fleas are highly opportunistic little blighters. If they can't find a suitable pet, they’ll happily sink their tiny teeth into human skin. Fleas bite humans for the same reason they bite pets – to feed on blood, which provides them with the nutrients they need to survive and reproduce. This sustains the dreaded flea life cycle which is why reinfestation often occurs - keep reading to find out how to break this life cycle, for good!

However, humans aren’t their preferred meal. Our skin is smoother, and we don’t have fur to nestle into, making it harder for them to hang on for long. That said, if your pet has fleas and your home has become infested, you can absolutely expect to be on the receiving end of a few itchy bites.

What do flea bites look like?

Flea bites on humans tend to appear as small, red, itchy bumps, often with a tiny puncture mark in the centre. They usually pop up in clusters or lines, particularly around the ankles, feet, and lower legs – basically, anywhere fleas can easily hop onto. If you've woken up with several bites in a row, chances are you've got some hungry fleas lurking in your home. Unlike mosquito bites, flea bites don’t swell up as much, but they can be intensely itchy. And the worst part? Scratching them can lead to infection, so try to resist the urge to claw at your skin - easier said than done though. resisting the urge to claw at your skin is easier said than done.

How to get rid of fleas?

Once fleas have made themselves at home, getting rid of them requires patience and persistence. Here’s our vet-recommended tips:

Can fleas carry diseases?

Most flea bites are just annoying, but in some cases, they can lead to something more serious. Fleas are known to transmit diseases such as typhus and even the bubonic plague (yes, that plague – but don’t panic, it’s extremely rare). More commonly, flea bites can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals or pets, and can lead to secondary skin infections if scratched excessively. It’s common for pets to be flea allergic, with more than 200,000 dogs having Flea Allergy Dermatitis. If you suspect your pet is reacting to treatment, chat to our Vet Team of flea experts who are on hand to give you qualified advice.

So, do pet fleas bite? Absolutely. And while they may prefer your pet’s warm, fluffy coat, they won’t hesitate to take a nibble on you if given the chance. The good news? With the right treatments and a bit of persistence, you can get rid of them and keep your home flea-free.