Adult fleas typically live about 2 to 3 months (up to 100 days) when they have access to a host and proper conditions such as warmth and food (blood meals)
. Without a host, adult fleas survive much shorter periods, generally only 1 to 2 weeks, as they need blood meals to live long-term
. The flea life cycle includes four stages: egg, larva, pupa (in a cocoon), and adult. The entire life cycle can last from a few weeks to several months depending on environmental factors like temperature and humidity
. Adult fleas begin laying eggs within 1 to 2 days after their first blood meal, and a female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day once feeding
. Fleas can survive in the environment (e.g., carpets, bedding, grass) in larval or pupal stages for weeks to months, waiting for a host to emerge
. Without a host, adult fleas die quickly, but pre-emerged adults in cocoons can survive for extended periods (weeks to months) until they detect a host
. In summary:
- Adult fleas live 2-3 months with a host.
- Adult fleas survive 1-2 weeks without a host.
- The full life cycle can range from 3 weeks to several months depending on conditions.
- Fleas in pupal cocoons can survive for months waiting for a host.
This explains why flea infestations can persist for months even without pets present, as immature fleas can remain hidden and emerge later
