Bed Bugs, Fleas & Ticks
Flea
Tiny, wingless jumping insects that feed on pets and people. Usually brought indoors by cats, dogs or wildlife.
Quick facts
- Size
- 1.5–3 mm
- Colour
- Dark reddish-brown
- Active season
- Year-round indoors; peaks summer and fall
- Where found
- Pets, pet bedding, carpets, upholstered furniture
How to Identify
- Very small, flat-sided, wingless insect
- Powerful back legs — can jump many times its length
- Reddish-brown colour
Signs to Look For
- Pets scratching or biting at their fur
- Itchy bites on people, usually around the ankles
- Black specks ("flea dirt") in pet bedding
Why It Matters
- Itchy bites for people and pets
- Can pass tapeworms to pets
- Eggs and larvae hide in carpets, so problems return
Prevention Tips
- Keep pets on a vet-recommended flea treatment
- Vacuum carpets and furniture often and empty the vacuum outside
- Wash pet bedding in hot water
