While it is relatively easy to get rid of adult fleas, eggs, larvae and pupae are harder to detect because they are only found on hidden or shady areas. So, it is imperative that you know what they look like in order to control an infestation or prevent it.
Fleas undergo complete metamorphosis, their life stages are eggs, larvae, pupae and adult flea.
Egg
Flea eggs are non-sticky and are likely to fall off the host into shady areas such as carpets, cushions or rugs. They are tiny, almost like a grain of sand making it difficult to detect. Flea eggs are whitish in color. They will hatch within a range of two to four days, in a suitable environment.
Larvae
You might mistake this for a worm because that’s exactly what they look like. They are about two – five millimeters long and covered in tiny microscopic hair. Larvae retains its whitish colors and survives by feeding off the fecal matter left by the adult fleas or any organic material it can find, they do not feed on blood.
Pupae
This is also known as the protective stage, where the pupa is shrouded by a silky solid cocoon. This stage can withstand extreme weather conditions and does not require a blood meal, rather they remain protected for months until they sense an increase in the levels carbon dioxide (an indicator of the presence of mammals) the developed adult cannot survive if it has no access to blood when it breaks out.
Adult
Adult fleas are almost the same size with its larvae. They are oval-shaped and reddish or black in color. They are adapted to jumping on hosts with the help of well developed and strong hind legs.
What does larvae look like on animals?
Once the parasite develops into Pupa, it is harder to locate. The other easily detectable stage is the larvae. It may not look large or move fast but you can see them if you search, then exterminating larvae should prevent it from growing into pupae –a self sufficient stage– Now, Larvae has to feed, first choice is the adult’s fecal matter and the likely place it can have access to that is by staying close to your pet, around its fur or on the bedding.
You can spot larvae easily because they appear like c-shaped spots on blankets and animal fur.
How to Exterminate Flea Larvae
Groom your pets regularly with a flea comb soaked in Aloe Vera gel. If the case is severe, consult a veterinarian who will recommend suitable products that you can administer to relieve your pet.
After the treatment, eradicate the parasites from your house and surrounding before bringing the pet back home.
At Home
Sprinkle salt all over your carpet and leave for two days no longer; then vacuum thoroughly. Dispose of the dirt bags far from your residence. Next, machine washes the rugs, carpets and beddings with a cup of lemon juice.