There are many types of fleas that can infest both pets and people but the most common type of flea in North America is the cat flea Ctenocephalides felis. This flea is not very host-specific which means it will happily feed on the blood of dogs cats rodents and even humans. In fact the cat flea is responsible for more flea infestations in homes than any other type of flea.
While most people think of fleas as tiny insects that jump from place to place they are actually small wingless bugs that are very good at hiding in the fur of their host. If you suspect your pet has fleas the best way to confirm it is to part their fur and look for small dark moving dots. You may also see small black specks on your pet’s skin which are the flea droppings or ‘flea dirt’.
Fleas are more than just a nuisance; they can also pose a serious health risk to both pets and people. Fleas can transmit diseases and parasites and they can cause anemia in both animals and humans. Fleas are also known to cause allergic reactions in some people and animals which can be very uncomfortable and even dangerous.
If you think your pet has fleas it’s important to take action right away. There are many effective flea control products available but it’s important to choose one that is right for your pet and your situation. A veterinarian can help you choose the best product for your pet and they can also provide advice on how to prevent flea infestations in the future.
Do rats have fleas?
Yes rats have fleas.
What do fleas do to rats?
The fleas bite the rats and feed off of their blood.
Do fleas only bite rats?
No fleas will bite any mammal they come in contact with including humans.
How do fleas spread?
Fleas can jump from one host to another or they can be transported by clothing or other objects that have come in contact with an infected animal.
How do I know if my rat has fleas?
You may see fleas crawling on your rat or you may notice your rat scratching excessively.
Are fleas dangerous to rats?
While fleas are not dangerous to rats on their own they can transmit diseases and parasites that can be dangerous to rats.
How do I get rid of fleas on my rat?
You will need to treat your rat with a fleaicide and you may also need to treat your home to get rid of all the fleas.
What is a fleaicide?
A fleaicide is a pesticide that kills fleas.
How do I treat my home for fleas?
You will need to vacuum all carpets and upholstered furniture and wash all bedding and clothing in hot water.
You may also need to use a flea bomb or fogger.
What is a flea bomb?
A flea bomb is a device that releases a cloud of insecticide into the air to kill fleas.
What is a flea fogger?
A flea fogger is a device that releases a cloud of insecticide into the air to kill fleas.
Will treating my rat and my home get rid of all the fleas?
No you may also need to treat your yard if your rat has been outdoors.
How do I treat my yard for fleas?
You will need tospray your yard with an insecticide.
How often do I need to treat my rat for fleas?
You will need to treat your rat every few weeks to keep the fleas under control.
What should I do if I have questions about treating my rat for fleas?
You should talk to your veterinarian about the best way to treat your rat for fleas.
