Can fleas live on people?

Although fleas occasionally bite humans, they cannot live on people. Cat and dog fleas, the fleas most often found in homes, live primarily on dogs and cats.

Fleas are adapted to living on furry bodies. The shape of their bodies helps them move around pieces or hair, and they are able to cling to hairs when the animal moves. Human bodies do not have enough hair to make them a friendly home for fleas. On the other hand, if the pets in the home are infested with fleas, excess fleas are likely to find homes in the carpets and furniture and then feed on human feet and ankles when pets are not available.