Can Pets Spread Bed Bugs?

Fleas, ticks, and other pests often hitch a ride on our furry friends. But, how about bed bugs? Thankfully, these tiny insects don’t hide in fur, so your dog or cat is extremely unlikely to carry bed bugs indoors. However, it’s important to note that bed bugs may still infest your pet’s bed and feed on them at night!

Here’s what pet owners should know about bed bugs:

• While bed bugs prefer human hosts, they’ll bite dogs, cats, birds, and more
• Bites often show as tiny red bumps on the belly or limbs
• Though bed bugs will feed on pets, they do not hide in fur
• If you notice your pet itching or showing discomfort, look for signs of bed bugs

Can Bed Bugs Hurt My Pet?

The good news is that pets are less likely to be targeted by bed bugs; the bad news is that bed bugs will typically avoid pets while searching for you! These parasites prefer human hosts. However, if the infestation is particularly large or they cannot access your sleeping area, they may invade your pet’s bed.

If your furry friend is showing signs of discomfort, such as frequent biting or scratching, look around their sleeping area for signs of bed bugs. Exoskeletons, white-colored eggs, and small red or black dots are some of the most common indications that the pests are nearby.

Can Dogs Get Bed Bugs Outside?

It’s very rare for bed bugs to survive outdoors, and even rarer for them to be picked up by an animal. These pests usually spread from person to person in public places like airplanes, hotels, and thrift stores. That said, you may want to keep an eye out for other pests that may jump on your dog when they run outdoors, such as ticks or fleas.

How to Protect Your Pets From Bed Bugs

As pet owners, we want to keep our companions as comfortable and happy as possible. Bed bugs are just as unpleasant for them as they are for us. Thankfully, it isn’t too hard to protect your pets from bed bugs; if you don’t have an infestation, just routinely wash their bedding in hot water to prevent these pests from invading.

If you have bed bugs, though, you’ll want to contact an exterminator as quickly as possible. Bed bug removal companies will not only protect your pets, but also your entire family from these pests.