Parasitic insect · Ctenocephalides felis / Ctenocephalides canis
The cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) is the most widespread in Belgium, even in pet-free homes. 1 female lays up to 50 eggs per day. Eggs, larvae and pupae make up 95% of the infestation — and they're not on the animal.
Fleas jump up to 30 cm horizontally and concentrate in carpets, bedding and skirting boards. An effective treatment must simultaneously target the animal (vet) and the environment (adult insecticide + growth regulator). Without environmental treatment, reinfestation is almost certain.
Questions fréquentes
I have fleas but no pet. Is that possible?
Yes. Fleas survive in the environment for up to 12 months without a host. They're brought in by wild animals (hedgehogs, rats), on clothing, or they hatch from a previous occupant's infestation. Pupae can lie dormant for up to 6 months and hatch at the slightest stimulus.
My cat is treated but I still have fleas. Why?
Because 95% of the infestation lives in the environment (eggs, larvae, pupae in the carpet, sofas, skirting boards) — not on the animal. Veterinary treatment alone isn't enough. A biocide + insect growth regulator (IGR) treatment in every room is essential.
Do fleas bite humans too?
Yes. In the absence of its preferred host animal, the cat flea bites humans, usually on the ankles and shins. It can transmit dipylidiasis (tapeworm) and, in rare cases in Europe, bartonellosis (cat scratch disease).
Problème de fleas ?
Intervention sous 24h — résultat garanti.