Ctenocephalides canis: Dog flea

General Description: These species are found on both dogs and cats. The fleas are dark brown, wingless insects, about 2 to 4mm long, with 3 pairs of legs adapted for leaping. Their bodies are flattened side to side. These fleas have a row of spines, or "combs," on both the thorax and the head. The frontmost spine of the cheek comb of Ctenocephalides canis is shorter than the second spine, whereas the first two cheek comb spines of Ctenocephalides felis are about the same length. Flea mouth parts are adapted for sucking blood.

Life Cycle: The only parasitic flea stage is the adult. The flea undergoes complete metamorphosis in its life cycle, which may be completed in 3 weeks under good conditions of moderate warmth and high humidity. Eggs are laid on the animal and fall off onto the ground. Maggot-like larvae hatch, and feed on organic matter for 1 to 2 weeks before spinning cocoons and pupating. The adult fleas hop onto a dog, suck blood, and copulate.

Location: Adult fleas may be found anywhere on the body. Eggs, larvae and pupae are found on the host's bedding and in floor crevices, carpets, outside in gardens, parks and yards and similar environmental locations.

Significance: The flea is of considerable importance because it not only causes annoyance and loss of condition, but also is the intermediate host for the common tapeworm, Dipylidium caninum, and for the filarial worm, Dipetalonema reconditum.

Effect on Host: Flea infestation; irritation and itching caused by the blood-sucking adult fleas; flea-bite dermatitis; allergic eczema. As mentioned above, fleas transmit the canine tapeworm and filarial worm. Flea bites cause irritation and itching. Infested animals lose condition and have unkempt coats. Some dogs become intensely sensitive to flea saliva and may develop "flea-bite hyposensitivity." This is characterised by reddened, moist, hairless lesions mainly on the flanks and the base of the tail. This may prove difficult to treat. Infested dogs typically scratch and bite at their coats.

Diagnostic Information: Identifying adult fleas on the dog.

Control: See Dog Flea and Tick Facts

Ctenocephalides – adult		Flea larvae