Can Fleas Survive in The Cold?

Can Fleas Survive in Cold Weather?

Fleas are commonly thought of as pests that thrive in warm, humid climates, but can they survive in the cold? This question is a common one among pet owners, as they are all too familiar with the problems that a flea infestation can cause. The answer to this question is both yes and no, as fleas have different abilities to survive in cold temperatures, but there are some things that can be done to prevent a flea infestation even in cold climates.

Can Fleas Survive Cold in the Winter?

A flea can survive in colder temperatures in the winter, but their activity will be significantly slowed down. In temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius (50 Fahrenheit), their mobility is completely inhibited and the reproductive cycle is drastically reduced. This means that a flea shrinks in size and any eggs laid will not develop until temperatures rise again. Fleas prefer temperatures of 18 – 20 degrees Celsius (65 – 68 Fahrenheit), so anything below this will cause them to go into a dormant state until conditions improve again.

What Can You Do To Prevent Flea Infestation in the Cold?

It’s important to take the proper steps to prevent a flea infestation, even in a cold climate. Here are some tips:

• • Vacuum Often: Vacuuming your carpets and upholstery regularly is the best way to get rid of flea eggs and larvae and help prevent them from developing into adults.

• • Wash Pet Bedding: Be sure to wash your pet’s bedding in hot water regularly to get rid of any fleas that may have attached themselves to it.

• • Treat Pets for Fleas: Keeping your pets up-to-date with flea treatments is the most important step you can take to protect against a flea infestation. Speak to your vet about the best treatment for your pets.

Conclusion

Although fleas can survive in colder climates, it is possible to take proactive steps to protect your home from a flea infestation. By following the steps above, you can help ensure that you and your pets enjoy a flea-free winter. It’s common for people to be worried about fleas being a problem in the winter months. This is due to the fact that fleas are most commonly found in warm climates, leading many to wonder if these pesky pests can survive in colder temperatures. It may surprise some to learn that fleas do, in fact, survive quite well in cold temperatures. This is because fleas are very adaptable and can survive both extremely hot and extreme cold temperatures. While fleas will shy away from cold temperatures and retreat further into deeper cracks and crevices, they can survive both sub-freezing and sub-zero temperatures. The lifecycle of a flea also contributes to its ability to survive in the cold. During its dormant stages, a flea can enter a form of suspended animation known as diapause which allows it to remain inactive until temperatures warm again and can provide the necessary conditions for the pores to begin breeding and feeding activities. Of course, cold temperatures may impede the mating, feeding, and egg-laying cycle of fleas, meaning their population will likely not grow or thrive in colder climates. Fleas, however, can still remain active and can use animal hosts in order to sustain their life cycles during winter months. Ultimately, depending on the severity and duration of cold temperatures, fleas can survive in these conditions. In order to ensure fleas do not become an issue, however, it is important to take the proper preventative measures such as regular vacuuming and treating infected areas and potential breeding grounds with insecticides or other deterrents. Also Read: Bed Bug Bites on Black Skin! Also Read: Where Do Fleas Live Outside? Also Read: Where Do Fleas Bite Humans? Also Read: Can You Get Lice from Being in The Same Room? Related: Do Lice Nymphs Lay Eggs? Related: Fleas Stuffed Animal Pants! Related: Fleas Allergy in Humans! Related: Fleas Bombs that Work! Related: Fleas Poop on Dogs! Related: Fleas in House No Pets! Related: Fleas Tablets for Dogs! Related: Fleas at The Beach! Related: Fleas Powder for Cats! Related: Bed Bug Bites on Black Skin! Related: What Do Nits Look Like on Paper Towels? Related: Close-up Pictures of Chigger Bites! Related: Up Close Pictures of Lice Eggs!