How long can fleas survive without a blood meal?

Fleas, specifically the common dog flea (Ctenocephalides canis) and the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), have remarkable survival capabilities when it comes to fasting. Under optimal conditions, adult fleas can survive for an extended period without a blood meal. The correct answer states that flea adults can survive without feeding for up to 18 months.

This remarkable resilience is due to several factors, including their ability to enter a dormant state when food sources are scarce. During this period, they can effectively manage their energy reserves, allowing them to wait for the appropriate conditions to feed and reproduce.

It's important to note that while fleas can survive for extended periods without a meal, the duration can vary depending on environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity. High humidity levels can improve their chances of survival, while extreme dry conditions can shorten it. Understanding this aspect is critical for pest control strategies, as it underscores the need for effective treatments that target all life stages of the flea to prevent ongoing infestations.