Bed bugs are often associated with human discomfort—itchy bites, sleepless nights, and stressful infestations. But many pet owners worry about how bed bugs affect their dogs, cats, and other animals in the home. Can pets get bed bugs? Do bed bugs live on animals? And can pets bring bed bugs into your house?
Understanding the relationship between bed bugs and pets can help you protect your animals while effectively addressing an infestation.
Do Bed Bugs Bite Pets?
Yes, bed bugs can bite pets, but humans are still their preferred host. Bed bugs are attracted to warmth, carbon dioxide, and human scent, which is why they usually target people first. However, if human hosts are unavailable—such as during the day or in vacant rooms—bed bugs may feed on pets instead.
Dogs, cats, birds, and other warm-blooded animals can all be bitten. Pet bites often appear on areas with less fur, such as:
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The belly
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Ears
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Neck
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Inner legs
Bites may look like small red welts or bumps and can cause itching or irritation.
Can Pets Carry Bed Bugs?
Unlike fleas or ticks, bed bugs do not live on pets. They don’t nest in fur or stay attached to animals for long periods. Bed bugs hide in cracks, furniture, bedding, and nearby objects, coming out only to feed.
That said, pets can still play an indirect role in spreading bed bugs. A bed bug may hitch a ride on a pet’s fur temporarily, especially if the animal rests in an infested area. Pet beds, blankets, carriers, and toys are more likely to harbor bed bugs than the pet itself.
How Bed Bugs Affect Pets
Most pets experience mild reactions to bed bug bites, but some animals may suffer more noticeable symptoms, including:
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Excessive scratching or licking
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Skin irritation or inflammation
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Hair loss in affected areas
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Secondary skin infections caused by scratching
In rare cases, pets with allergies or sensitive skin may develop stronger reactions. While bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases to pets, persistent bites can cause stress and discomfort.
If your pet shows signs of irritation and you suspect bed bugs, consult a veterinarian to rule out fleas, mites, or other conditions.
Signs Bed Bugs May Be Affecting Your Pet
Because bed bug bites on pets can resemble flea bites or allergic reactions, infestations often go unnoticed. Warning signs may include:
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Bites on both humans and pets
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Pets avoiding their beds or sleeping areas
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Dark spots or shed skins on pet bedding
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Increased restlessness at night
If your pet sleeps near you and you’re experiencing unexplained bites, bed bugs should be considered as a possibility.
Treating Bed Bugs When You Have Pets
One of the biggest concerns for pet owners is treatment safety. Many traditional pesticides can be harmful to animals if misused. Never apply bed bug treatments directly to your pet unless explicitly directed by a veterinarian.
During professional treatment:
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Follow all preparation instructions carefully
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Remove pets from treated areas as directed
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Wash pet bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water and dry on high heat
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Vacuum pet sleeping areas thoroughly
Pet-safe, low-toxicity, and bio-based treatment options are increasingly available and can be effective when part of an integrated pest management plan.
Preventing Bed Bugs in Pet Areas
Pet items can easily become overlooked hiding places. To reduce risk:
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Wash pet bedding regularly on high heat
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Inspect pet beds, crates, and carriers during routine cleaning
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Avoid placing pet beds directly against walls or furniture
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Be cautious with secondhand pet furniture or accessories
If you travel with pets, inspect hotel rooms carefully and keep pet carriers off beds and floors whenever possible.
Can Bed Bug Products for Pets Help?
Flea and tick treatments do not kill bed bugs. Applying these products in hopes of controlling bed bugs is ineffective and may be harmful. Bed bugs require targeted treatments focused on their hiding places, not on the animal.
Always rely on proven bed bug control methods rather than pet treatments when dealing with an infestation.
Helping Pets Cope During an Infestation
Bed bug infestations can be stressful for pets due to disrupted routines, unusual smells from treatments, and temporary relocation. Maintaining normal feeding schedules, providing comfort items, and minimizing environmental changes can help reduce anxiety.
If your pet seems unusually stressed or develops skin issues, a veterinarian can provide supportive care during the treatment process.
Bed Bugs Are a Household Problem—Not a Pet Problem
It’s important to remember that pets are not the cause of bed bug infestations. Bed bugs are introduced through luggage, visitors, furniture, and shared spaces—not because of animals. Blaming or isolating pets won’t solve the problem and may increase stress for both pets and owners.
Effective bed bug control focuses on the environment, early detection, and professional intervention.
Protecting Both Your Home and Your Pets
Bed bugs and pets can coexist in the same household, but proactive prevention and prompt treatment are key to keeping everyone comfortable. By inspecting pet areas regularly, using safe treatment methods, and working with professionals, you can eliminate bed bugs while protecting your animals’ health and well-being.
With the right approach, you can restore peace to your home—for both you and your pets.
Published by Scott Palatnik
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