Do Pets Cause Bed Bugs? Debunking the Myths and Understanding the Facts

As a pet owner, you may have found yourself wondering, “Could my furry friend be the reason I have bed bugs?” It’s a common concern. After all, we know that pets can carry fleas and ticks, so it’s natural to think they might also be responsible for bringing bed bugs into your home. But is there any truth to this?

At Thermopest, we’ve heard this question time and again, and we’re here to put your mind at ease. Pets don’t cause bed bugs. While bed bugs can be a nuisance, they’re not like fleas or ticks that live on your pet. Let’s break down the myths, clear up some confusion, and talk about how to protect both your pets and your home from these unwelcome pests.

What Attracts Bed Bugs?

First, it helps to understand what bed bugs are after. Unlike fleas and ticks, bed bugs aren’t especially interested in animals.

Bed bugs feed on blood, yes, but they’re much more attracted to humans than pets. Why? Because bed bugs are drawn to the warmth and carbon dioxide we give off while we sleep. This makes us their preferred meal. Your pet, on the other hand, is not usually on their radar.

So, while bed bugs might bite your pet if there’s a serious infestation and no other option, they’re not actively seeking out animals to live on. It’s you they want.

Can Bed Bugs Live on Pets?

Now, let’s tackle another common question: “Can bed bugs live in my pet’s fur?” The short answer is no. Unlike fleas or ticks, bed bugs don’t have the kind of legs that help them cling to fur or skin for extended periods. They need to hide in places like mattresses, furniture, or cracks in the wall where they can easily access a food source (that’s you!).

That said, bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers. While they won’t make a permanent home in your pet’s fur, they can temporarily cling onto your dog or cat for a ride across the house or even from one location to another. It’s pretty rare, but it’s still a possibility.

Do Pets Attract Bed Bugs?

Let’s clear up another myth: your pets don’t attract bed bugs. These pests are far more interested in you and the warmth of your bed. So, even though your pet sleeps beside you, it’s not them that’s drawing the bed bugs in.

However, if your home is already infested, bed bugs may take refuge in your pet’s bedding, crate, or favourite lounging spot, simply because it’s a warm place close to where you sleep. But rest assured, they aren’t there because of your pet—they’re still after you.

Common Misconceptions About Pets and Bed Bugs

It’s easy to confuse bed bugs with fleas or ticks, but these pests are quite different. Fleas and ticks live on pets and bite them constantly, whereas bed bugs feed mainly on humans. While your dog or cat might get a bite if bed bugs are in the house, it’s not a sign that your pet caused the problem.

How to Protect Your Home and Pets from Bed Bugs

Even though pets don’t cause bed bugs, they can be indirectly affected if bed bugs have taken up residence in your home. So, how do you protect your pet’s living spaces and keep bed bugs at bay?

Inspect Pet Bedding and Living Areas

Just like you check your mattress and bed frame for signs of bed bugs, you should also inspect your pet’s bedding and favourite resting spots. Bed bugs can hide in seams and folds, so look for the usual signs—small black spots, shed skins, or live bugs.

Keep Your Home Clutter-Free

Clutter provides the perfect hiding spots for bed bugs. By reducing clutter in your home, especially around sleeping areas, you make it much harder for them to find places to hide. It’s a simple step, but it can make a big difference.

Wash Pet Bedding Regularly

If you’re worried about bed bugs, washing your pet’s bedding on a high-heat cycle is a great way to prevent an infestation. The heat will kill any bed bugs or eggs that may have found their way into the fabric.

Regular Home Inspections

Keeping an eye on your home is the best way to catch bed bugs early. Whether it’s inspecting your mattress, furniture, or pet bedding, routine checks can help you spot the problem before it becomes a full-blown infestation.

What to Do If You Suspect Bed Bugs in Your Home

Think you might have a bed bug problem? Here’s what to do next:

Recognise the Signs

The classic signs of bed bugs include bites that often appear in clusters or lines, tiny blood spots on your sheets, and dark faecal spots on your mattress or furniture. If you spot any of these signs, it’s time to act. Learn more about how to spot bed bugs here.

Quarantine Affected Areas

If you suspect bed bugs have invaded your bed, furniture, or even your pet’s bedding, isolate the affected areas. Remove bedding, clothes, or pet beds and seal them in plastic bags until they can be washed or treated.

Call in the Professionals

Bed bugs are notoriously hard to get rid of without professional help. At Thermopest, we’re experts in bed bug control. Our treatments are thorough and designed to get to the root of the problem, so you don’t have to worry about bed bugs returning.

Final Thoughts: Bed Bugs and Pets

It’s a relief to know that your pets aren’t responsible for bed bug infestations. Bed bugs prefer humans, not pets, and while they might take shelter in your pet’s bedding, it’s you they’re after. That being said, keeping your home clean, inspecting your pet’s spaces regularly, and being vigilant can go a long way in preventing an infestation.

If you do suspect that bed bugs have moved into your home, don’t wait. Give Thermopest a call. We’ll help you get rid of bed bugs for good, keeping both you and your pets safe and comfortable.