ABSTRACT
Common cat and dog flea. Dx: Adult, 1 to 3 mm, dark brown to black with combs (lines of thick bristles) on cheek and neck, laterally compressed, six legs. Habitat: Haircoat. Eggs and larvae mainly in bedding. Vector of Dipylidium caninum – flea infected as larva. Similar Species: Trichodectes canis (dogs). Felicola subrostratus (cats) Range: Worldwide. Clinical Signs: Usually none, many can cause anemia. Potential Zoonosis: Feces may transmit cat scratch fever. Tx: Removal followed by bathing. Very heavy infections may require transfusions.
