What are flea bites?
Fleas are small, wingless parasites that feed on blood. Cat and dog fleas account for most household infestations and can bite people even though they prefer animal hosts. Eggs fall from an animal’s coat into carpets, bedding and floor cracks, where larvae and pupae develop. Adult fleas detect warmth, movement and carbon dioxide and jump onto a nearby host.
What do the bites look like?
Bites are small, very itchy red bumps, often with a central puncture point. They commonly occur in clusters or short lines around the ankles and lower legs because fleas jump from the floor. Bites can occur elsewhere after contact with infested furniture or pet bedding. Some people develop larger blisters or a widespread hypersensitivity rash, while others show little reaction. Ordinary pet-flea bites are unpleasant but usually not dangerous. Fleas can transmit infections in some parts of the world, so travel history and local public-health advice matter.
Treatment
Wash the skin gently and apply a cool compress. Avoid scratching, keep nails short and cover broken areas to reduce infection. A pharmacist can advise on an oral antihistamine or a short course of a mild topical corticosteroid when appropriate for the person’s age, pregnancy status and medical history. Bites normally settle over several days, but new lesions continue until the infestation is controlled.
Removing the source
All household pets should receive species-appropriate flea treatment advised by a vet; some dog products are highly toxic to cats. Wash pet bedding and suitable household fabrics at the recommended hot setting, vacuum carpets, soft furnishings and cracks thoroughly, and dispose of vacuum contents safely. Repeated cleaning may be needed because pupae can survive for weeks. A professional pest controller can help with a persistent infestation. Do not apply household insecticide or veterinary flea products to human skin.
When to see a doctor
Seek advice if bites are extensive, blistering, not improving, or show increasing pain, warmth, pus or spreading redness. Call emergency services for breathing difficulty, throat swelling, faintness or a rapidly generalised reaction.