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*The life cycle can be faster or slower depending on temperature
 
*The life cycle can be faster or slower depending on temperature
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'''1. The adult'''
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'''1. Adults'''
    
*Uses changes in light intensity, warmth and carbon dioxide to locate host
 
*Uses changes in light intensity, warmth and carbon dioxide to locate host
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==Habitats==
 
==Habitats==
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*Only aproximately 5% of the flea population will be on the animal (and usually it is a much smaller percentage)
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*The rest of the population are in the environment
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**E.g. Eggs, larvae, pupae and unfed adults
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*Fleas accumulate in certain '''hot spots''' where the animal spends the majority of its time
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**E.g. Warm, shady, humid ares
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**E.g. Outdoors in warmer climates or inside in temperate climates
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*Very large numbers of eggs are found in areas where cats land after jumping as they have been dislodged
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**E.g. Beside sofas
    
==Control==
 
==Control==
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*Single or occasional treatments will only give temporary relief from fleas as the majority of the population is '''in the environment'''
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*Appropriate action muct be taken to stop re-infestation
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*The animal must be rid of its resident flea population
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*The animal should be protected against subsequent re-infestation
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**From within the home
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**From outside the home
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*The enironmental reservoir population should be eliminated
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**Animal treatment to deplete reservoir
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***Alduticides
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***Adulticides with larvicidal effects
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***Insect growth regulators (IGR's)
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**Direct chemical treatment of domestic environment
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***Insecticides
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***Insect growth regulators
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***Inorganic chemicals
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***Entomorphagous nematodes
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*To prevent resistance occuring, control methods should not rely solely on chemical methods
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**Hygiene such as regular vaccuming and washing of the animal's bedding should also occur for the most effective treatment
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*For more information on the chemicals used for flea treatment click (here)
    
==Links==
 
==Links==
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