The flea reproductive break point — what it is and how it is pivotal for successful flea control

Fleas (Order: Siphonaptera) are highly specialised insects with more than 2500 species worldwide. Adult fleas are small, wingless, laterally flattened, blood feeders with strong hind legs adapted for leaping. The flea most commonly seen on both dogs and cats is the ‘cat flea’ Ctenocephalides felis. C. felis is a source of revulsion, distress and irritation for pet owners but can also cause significant health-related issues for people and pets alike. It is a cause of flea allergic dermatitis (FAD) in susceptible pets as well as significant bite reactions in people. Anaemia may develop through blood loss if large numbers of fleas are present. C. felis acts as a vector for many flea-borne diseases including Rickettsia felis (the spotted fever agent), Haemoplasma spp. (the cause of feline infectious anaemia), bubonic plague (Yersinia pestis) and murine (endemic) typhus (Rickettsia typhi). It is also an intermediate host for the flea tapeworm Dipylidium caninum.

Control therefore is vital to reduce disease risks associated with infestation and avoid erosion of the human–animal bond. The veterinary nurse is at the forefront of flea control and development of control programmes with owners. This may take place in flea clinics or at reception where questions about fleas are frequently asked. This article considers flea control, and the importance of the reproductive break point in ensuring that flea control strategies are successful.