Which flea species is most commonly found in home infestations?

The cat flea is the species most commonly associated with home infestations. Its scientific name, Ctenocephalides felis, indicates its primary association with cats, but it is not limited to feline hosts; it infests dogs, other pets, and even humans. The adaptability of the cat flea to various environments—such as homes with pets—enables it to thrive and reproduce effectively, leading to widespread infestations in domestic settings.

Moreover, cat fleas are highly prolific, with females capable of laying hundreds of eggs in their lifetime, further amplifying their presence in households. This high reproductive rate, combined with their ability to survive off various hosts, makes them a primary concern for pet owners and households. Their ability to jump long distances allows them to spread quickly within a home, often creating significant nuisance and health concerns for both pets and humans.

In contrast, the dog flea, rat flea, and human flea are less common in domestic environments, as they are more specialized to their respective hosts or less prevalent in typical household scenarios. This biological and behavioral flexibility of the cat flea solidifies its status as the primary culprit in fleas infesting homes.