Will Bed Bugs Bite Cats? Vet-Approved Solutions

Yes sure Bed bugs are small obligatory blood sucking animals which are able to penetrate into homes and create numerous inconveniences and upset.

While many cat people are aware of their presence due to human bites, a common question arises. will bed bugs bite cats? To this, it would be pertinent to ask and answer what bed bugs are and their habits to engage the right course of action. Let’s dive into a deeper view.

What Are Bed Bugs?

Cimex lectularius also known as bed bugs are small in size, oval, reddish-brown insects that feed purely on human and other warm blooded animal’s blood.

They are night active therefore, flee to small crevices during the day and are only seen in the night feeding time.

The common bug that loves to hide in our beds are therefore called bed bugs, and while their bites are not dangerous, they cause itching, and irritation and can even trigger allergies at times.

This paper focuses on the Eating Behavior of Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are obligate hematophagous insects by meal choice and such a classification is supported by more evidence than is the case with many other insects, from both morphological and molecular points of view.

They are taken by warmth, carbon dioxide, and the odour produced by human sweat.

Adult bed bugs possess a unique mouth apparatus by which they feed for several minutes through the skin.

It is common to find that after the end of the feeding period, they hide, and one is left with small red itchy bumps.

Can Bed Bugs Bite Cats?

Now that we understand the general feeding habits of bed bugs, the next question is can they bite cats? The short answer is yes, but bedbugs mostly feed off humans.

That is why I would like to have a deeper dive into this concept now.

Bed Bugs and Animal Hosts

Although bed bugs specialise in feeding exclusively on human blood, they are rather versatile. If other sufficiently large warm-blooded mammals like cats or dogs whether domesticated or wild are available, bed bugs will bite these to draw blood.

Lice also are not discriminators. They are waiting for a warm-blooded host for their species.

Things That Maybe Cause Bed Bug Bites on Cats

Crucial criteria which can define whether bed bugs will bite a cat include the following. For example, cat behaviour contributes to the same in some way.

Pets that sleep in areas adjacent to human bedding or in places with bed bugs are most probably to be bitten.

Likewise, the cat’s extremity temperature and movement could affect bed bug motion and presence on the asleep surface of the bed.

Understanding why bed bugs are Partially Host Specific

There is no other insect that is more famous for feeding on human blood than bed bugs, but why so? Knowing the cause of such behaviour may help explain why bed bugs are not usually found in cats.

Human vs. Animal Blood

Humans give out more carbon dioxide when they exhale and also have higher body temperatures than most known animal species.

These factors make humans very vulnerable to attacks by bed bugs. Besides, humans are immobile for most of the time when sleeping which gives bed bugs a perfect chance to feed on them.

Temperature and Carbon Di Oxide Demand

They are very much aware of heat and carbon dioxide and therefore are easily pulled towards humans.

Cats also give off heat and CO2 but the levels and distribution of these parameters are higher so bed bugs are interested in humans rather than animals.

Are Cats Particularly Appreciable by Bed Bugs?

Since these bugs show a very strong preference for humans, bed bugs are not particular to cats. But they will bite cats when they get the chance, mind you.

Cats as Unlikely Hosts

Cats are generally more active if not in sleep mode than humans and they do move around a lot even at night.

This though could make it hard for bed bugs to feed on them due to the constant motion.

Cats are also less likely to come into contact with highly infested zones that include seams of mattresses or of upholstered furniture, where bed bugs are commonly located.

Preferred Feeding Zones of Bed Bugs

In humans, bed bugs have a preference for feeding on the face, arms, and legs where skin is more likely to show.

Cats, because of the fur and the fact that they are more mobile than dogs might not be quite as accommodating.

Thus, the bed bugs will not probably bother them, unless there are a large number or if the cat is resting and letting its skin accessible to them on the chosen spots.

Also read: What Can Mosquito Bites Cause in Cats and Dogs? – 7 Vet Advice

Symptoms of Bed Bug Infestation in Cats

When a cat does suffer bed bug bites, some indications may be noted. Cats are generally less reactive to bed bug bites than people, but they are not immune to them they may too feel discomfort at bites.

Common Symptoms in Cats

Skin inflammation or redness, or inflammation at the sites of the bites on a cat affected by the bed bugs.

Infected parts are usually located in areas where the skin is naked and which include the ears, paws and face regions.

Cats in some instances may be observed over grooming or scratching because of the bites.

How to Differentiate Bed Bug Bites from Flea Bites

Flea bites and those caused by bed bugs can sometimes look almost alike, therefore they may be caused by the same bug.

Flea bites are commonly minor, red and grouped. However, bed bug bites are commonly localized and can be arranged on the skin in a straight line or pattern.

Moreover, the properties of the bed bug bites are said to be rather itchy and may swell a little.

Also read: How to Keep Cats Off Your Car? 10 Expert best Tips

Are Bed Bug Bites on Cats Dangerous?

Most people may experience some discomfort from their bites but bed bug bites are not toxic to cats. However they can cause irritation and can pose some threats to health in certain circumstances.

Potential Health Risks

Sometimes, due to severe infestation, the biting is excessive and can even result in additional bacterial skin infections.

In addition, there are cats that might be so sensitive to bed bug saliva that an allergy reaction would occur including hives, swelling, or severe itching.

Allergic Reactions in Cats

Like other animals, cats could develop different forms of allergy to bed bug bites. These kinds of reactions can range from general inflammation, and hair loss, for instance,e facial or respiratory arrest.

If your cat seems very sick after a bed bug bite, you need to consult a veterinarian ASAP.

Also read: Can cats see ghosts? Vet-Approved Signs to Watch

Preventing Bed Bug Infestations in Your Home

Measures to prevent infestations are an essential way to ensure that neither humans nor cats can be harmed by bed bugs.

People and even animals are affected causing so much discomfort that it is always advisable to act in advance in case of an infestation.

Essential Bed Bug Prevention Tips

Check often for bed bugs within the mattresses, bedding as well as furniture.• It is necessary to put protective bed covers on mattresses and box springs to cover them.

Walk around barefoot on the carpet in order to check for any presence of bed bugs or their eggs, then, vacuum as often as you can, particularly in areas where you sleep.

Clean washing clothes, curtains and pet bedding in hot water to eliminate all bed bugs present.

How to Save Your Cat Friend from Bed Bugs

To reduce your cat being affected by bed bugs, make sure that your cat sleeps in areas that could rarely be affected by bed bugs or where there is little or no human activity such as on raised structures.

Frequently check local bedding and grooming places for signs of pest presence.

Also read: How to Keep Cats From Jumping the Fence? 5 Vet Tips

How to Treat Bed Bug Bites on Cats

The signs that your cat has been attacked by bed bugs may include it being itchy and scratchy or too excited to be handled in a particular area of its body.

Immediate Care and Relief

The first thing that needs to be done is washing the bite areas with mild soap and running water. You can put a cold pack to decrease swelling and help relieve the itch.

To reduce allergic reactions your vet may also recommend over the counter antihistamines.

Do not use any product formulated for human use to treat a topical form on your dog without seeking the permission of a veterinarian.

When Patients Should See a Veterinarian

If the affected area develops infection signs or severe inflammation or you realize your cat is having allergy signs like difficulties in breathing, consult your veterinarian for further action.

Also read: How to Keep Cats Out of the Garage? 10 Vet-Approved

Bed Bugs and Cats: Myths and Facts

Regarding contacts between bed bugs and cats, there are various myths that mistakenly circulate among the population.

First, let’s stop and distinguish the truth from the myth.

Common Misconceptions about Bed Bugs and Cats

Another issue people argue is that bed bugs are only attracted to humans and thus, no pet can be at risk of infestation.

Though bed bugs are particularly inclined to feed on human blood, they are very universal feeders and will feed on other animals if they have to.

Other myths include the fur of cats; however, it is staged by preferring to hide in the cracks and not on the fur of animals.

Dispelling the Myths

When it comes to bed bugs, one should bear it in mind that they are unlikely to make their home on your cat’s fur but if they do bite the skin irritation is sure to occur.

This can only be avoided if you use prevention and proper pest control so as to eliminate any danger that your cat may face.

wrap up on Will Bed Bugs Bite Cats?

Even though bed bugs are famous pests that feed on blood from people, they can also sting cats if people are scarce.

Cats can also be easily infested with bed bugs and these bugs feed in an opportunistic manner.

But squirrels, rabbits, hares or pheasants are their favourite prey and not cats. The consequences of bed bug bites in cats are itching, irritation and discomfort. however, they do not transmit diseases to animals or to people.

However, to eliminate dangers for your cat and your house, the cases of infestation should be solved as soon as possible.

Clean your houses frequently, wash beds and sheets, vacuum, and hire services from pest control specialists occasionally.

Also, cleaning helps to minimize cases of infestation from unwanted guests such as bedbugs.

If you think your cat has been bitten, you should contact the veterinarian for further advice on treatment.

There is nothing that you cannot control from bed bugs and they should be gotten rid of before they infest both your home and your pets.

Also read: Can Cats Eat Cheese? A Complete Guide to Cat Safety

FAQ: Will Bed Bugs Bite Cats?