Can Bed Bugs Bite Pets?
A common concern a homeowner with pets has is how bed bugs affect their furry friends.
Bed bugs have become a growing concern across the country. These tiny, pesky, parasitic pests can enter any residential or commercial property and feed on humans. Bed bugs are now found in homes and commercial establishments, regardless of their level of cleanliness and maintenance. They are expert hitchhikers and get transported via bedding, clothing, furniture, and luggage.
A common concern a homeowner with pets has is how bed bugs affect their furry friends. Pets are highly unlikely to pick bed bugs from outside and bring them inside the home. But when there is already an infestation, bed bugs can take a ride on the pets and spread from one room to another.
Do bed bugs bite pests?
While it is true that bed bugs prefer to feed exclusively on human blood, pets like cats, dogs, rabbits, or birds can also become victims of bed bug bites, and their bags, covers, mattresses and other accessories can become contaminated if the home has an infestation. These pests can feed on pests when hungry and fail to find a human to feed on for a long time. Unlike ticks and fleas, bed bugs rarely make pets their host, but their bedding makes a perfect hiding spot.
Here are a few instances where bed bugs can bite pets:
When extremely hungry and unable to find a human host
Pet sleeps on an infested bed
The pet sleeps on its owner’s bed
When the pet is old and struggles to move or defend itself
What do bed bug bites on pests look like?
Bed bug bites on pets can result in tiny, red, itchy bumps or welts, most likely on their limbs and stomach. Bed bug bites are painless and usually appear in a specific alignment much later. Most pet owners can mistake bed bug bites for mosquito or flea bites. These insects do not usually feel comfortable making their way through the thick fur of the pets and find it easier to crawl on human skin.
Can bed bugs spread diseases in pets?
Fortunately, bed bugs do not transmit diseases to pets. But the bites can cause discomfort; in some severe cases, scratching can result in secondary skin infection.
Signs of a bed bug infestation
Bite marks on pets
Bed bug debris like egg cases, molted skin, and fecal matter
Unpleasant odor around heavily infested areas
Stains on pet bedding
Ways to prevent bed bugs from biting pets
Regularly vacuum pet’s bed
Wash the bedding and put it in the dryer at high heat
If wash and dry is not an option, steam clean the bedding
Empty the vacuum
Seal all cracks and crevices
Invest in a protective pet bed cover
Protect the home from bed bugs
If you notice the signs of a bed bug infestation, seek professional assistance. Reliable and experienced bed bug exterminators use the best and safest treatment methods, depending on the infestation severity and the types of pets in the house, to ensure the home is free of bed bugs and the pets stay protected from bites. Contact a local pest control company to eliminate bed bugs.
Bed Bugs Arizona offers a free, in-home bed bug inspection and a one-year warranty on all bed bug services. No obligation. We specialize in apartment communities. Our fast, certified technicians provide the Pro-Treat Plus method of bed bug removal to Phoenix and surrounding cities in a 100-mile plus radius including Flagstaff, Globe, and Casa Grande. Veteran and senior discounts. Call now at (602) 962-8806.
