Can Pets Spread Bed Bugs?

While bed bugs are not typically found on pets themselves, they can hitch a ride on a pet’s belongings or travel with them. These pests are adept at hiding and can easily be transported from one place to another. Understanding how pets interact with bed bugs and taking precautions can help prevent these pests from becoming a problem in your home.

Facts About Bed Bugs and Pets

To better understand the relationship between pets and bed bugs, here are some key facts to remember: 

• Bed Bugs Don’t Live on Pets: Bed bugs are not known to live on animals. They prefer to hide in places like cracks, crevices, and bedding, and come out to feed on human blood.
• Pets Can Transport Bed Bugs: While pets themselves are not hosts for bed bugs, they can carry bed bugs on their belongings, such as bedding, carriers, or grooming tools.
• Bed Bugs in Pet Bedding: Bed bugs can infest pet bedding if it is in close contact with areas where bed bugs are already present. Regularly checking and cleaning pet bedding can help prevent infestations.
• Pets’ Belongings: Bed bugs can hitch a ride on pet carriers, blankets, and toys if these items come into contact with infested areas.
• Indirect Spread: Bed bugs can spread to new areas through pet belongings, such as grooming tools and toys, if they come into contact with infested environments.
• Preventative Measures: To prevent bed bugs from hitching a ride on pets’ belongings, inspect and clean pet carriers, bedding, and toys regularly.

Will Bed Bugs Hurt Your Pet?

Bed bugs prefer humans over pets, so it’s unlikely they will target your cat or dog. However, if you notice your pet showing signs of bed bug bites, a thorough inspection is necessary. Check for shed bed bug exoskeletons around their bedding and look for live bed bugs near seams or tags. If you find any evidence, contacting a professional exterminator is the best way to handle the infestation promptly.

Can Pets Get Bed Bugs From Outdoors?

Generally, pets are not at risk of picking up bed bugs outdoors. Bed bugs typically cannot survive outside, so even if a neighbor has an infestation, your dog is unlikely to carry them home from walks or playtime in the yard. Furthermore, bed bugs require specific indoor conditions to thrive, which outdoor environments do not provide. Bed bugs spread between properties by hitching rides on items like purses and suitcases, not on pets.

How to Protect Your Pets from Bed Bugs in Michigan

If you’re dealing with bed bugs, don’t forget to inspect your pet’s bedding! Just like with your own bedding, it’s crucial to wash pet bedding in hot water and dry it with heat to eliminate any bed bugs or eggs.

Ultimately, it’s best to hire a professional bed bug exterminator to help thoroughly eliminate an infestation.