What Do Fleas Look Like?
Adult fleas are approximately 1/8-inch long and are dark in color, ranging from brown to reddish-brown. Fleas are wingless, although they are capable of jumping large distances from host to host as a result of their six long legs. Individual fleas are difficult to kill by hand and typically require chemical treatment.
Close-Up of a Flea
The bodies of fleas are thin and flat, allowing for easy movement through an animal's fur. Their bodies are also covered in hair that serves to root them to the host. Adults have mouthparts which are used to extract the host's blood.
Fleas are commonly visible moving in infested pet's fur. Their presence is marked by reddened skin. If fleas are located on your pet, contact your veterinarian to discuss possible avenues of treatment. Pest control professionals should be contacted to exterminate indoor infestations.
Are Cat Fleas and Dog Fleas the Same?