Bed bugs… just the name is enough to make you itch! These tiny hitchhikers are experts at sneaking into homes — and once they’re in, they can be tough to evict. But what about your companion animals? Are they at risk of becoming a bed bug buffet? Let’s bust a few myths and help keep everyone in your household — two- or four-legged — comfy and bug-free.
Where do bed bugs come from?
Bed bugs are like the worst kind of house guests — they show up uninvited and refuse to leave. They can hitch a ride on luggage, used furniture, clothing, or even on you after a stay in a hotel or public place. Once inside, they make themselves at home in mattresses, furniture, baseboards — anywhere cozy and close to where humans (and sometimes animals) hang out.
Do bed bugs affect animals?
Good news: bed bugs prefer to snack on humans. But in a bad infestation, they won’t turn their noses up at a nearby animal. Dogs, cats, rabbits — if your pet’s bed is close to an infested area, they may get bitten. Bed bugs won’t live on your four-legged friends like fleas or ticks do, but they can hide out in their bedding and blankets.
Need more info on ticks… read our blog, “Tick Prevention”.
Signs of bed bugs in the home
How do you know if you’ve got unwanted visitors? Look for:
Tiny reddish-brown bugs (about the size of an apple seed)
Little white eggs or shed skins in bedding or furniture
Rust-coloured stains on fabrics
Furry companions that seem itchy or restless (though not all animals will react)
How to kick bed bugs to the curb
If you suspect bed bugs have moved in:
Wash all bedding, including your animal’s, on the hottest setting and dry on high heat.
Vacuum thoroughly — especially spots where your animals sleep. Empty the vacuum right away.
Call a licensed pest control professional for safe, effective treatment.
While bed bugs don’t spread disease, they do cause stress and sleepless nights. Staying vigilant, inspecting bedding regularly, and acting fast will help protect both you and your furry family members. After all, everyone deserves a good night’s sleep — without extra critters in the bed!
If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.
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