Bed Bugs and Pets: Can They Spread Them and What Should You Do?

This week’s topic comes directly from a reader question — and it’s one I think many pet owners may be quietly wondering about.

With the increase in discarded furniture along back roads and rural areas, she was concerned her dogs and cats may have been exposed to bed bugs after being around old sofas and mattresses. Her pets were itching, but she hadn’t seen any actual bugs. Her biggest worry was whether her pets could bring bed bugs into her home.

Before we even get into the answer, I want to pause on something important.

When furniture is dumped along roadsides or in wooded areas, it may seem harmless — but it can create real risks for both people and pets. These items can harbor pests like bed bugs, fleas, mites, and other insects. Curious pets don’t know the difference. They climb, sniff, lay on, and explore these items naturally.

In many areas, it’s nearly impossible to completely prevent pets from coming into contact with discarded items. But it’s something to be aware of — and a reminder that proper disposal matters more than we often think.

Now let’s talk about bed bugs.

Bed bugs are not like fleas or ticks. They do not live on pets, and they do not stay on animals. Instead, they live in environments — furniture, bedding, cracks, and crevices — and come out to feed, usually at night.

Pets can be bitten, but they are not a long-term host.

This means your dog or cat is not going to carry an infestation on their body. However, it is possible for a bed bug to briefly hitch a ride on fur, collars, or bedding after exposure. That’s how they can occasionally be transported indoors.

So the concern isn’t that your pet becomes “infested,” but that they could unknowingly carry one inside.

That’s where simple awareness makes a big difference.

If your pet has been around discarded furniture or questionable areas, take a moment before bringing them inside:

• Run your hands over their coat

• Check around the collar and under the belly

• Look for anything unusual

If you’re concerned, one of the easiest and most affordable steps you can take is a bath using a gentle, pet-safe shampoo. This helps remove anything that may be on the surface.

Now let’s talk about itching — because this is where many pet owners get stuck.

Itching alone does not mean bed bugs.

In fact, fleas, mites, allergies, and environmental irritants are far more common causes. Bed bug bites can occur, but they are often difficult to identify and can look similar to other skin issues.

If your pet is itchy and you’re not sure why, here are some practical, low-cost steps you can take first:

• Check for fleas or flea dirt (tiny black specks)

• Wash pet bedding in hot water

• Vacuum areas where your pet rests

• Give a bath with a soothing pet-safe shampoo

• Keep a close eye on skin changes (redness, bumps, hair loss)

These steps can often help narrow down the cause — and sometimes even resolve mild irritation.

For prevention, awareness is your best tool.

While you may not be able to completely avoid discarded furniture, try to redirect pets when possible and be mindful of where they spend time. Keeping bedding clean and limiting exposure when you can will reduce risk.

Some pet owners consider using sprays or home remedies to repel insects. You may hear suggestions like diluted household products, including things like Skin So Soft. While the intention is good, it’s important to be cautious. Dogs — and especially cats — can be sensitive

to topical products.

Not everything that is safe for humans is safe for pets.

Before applying anything to your pet’s skin, it’s always best to check with your veterinarian.

The good news is that bed bugs are not known to transmit disease to pets or people. While their bites can be irritating, they are considered more of a nuisance than a serious health threat.

Understanding how they behave — living in environments rather than on animals — helps remove a lot of the fear and confusion.

And as always, if your pet’s itching continues, worsens, or doesn’t improve with basic care, that’s the time to take the next step and consult your veterinarian when possible.

Because when we understand what we’re dealing with — and what we’re not — we can make better decisions for both our pets and our homes.

Remember to Paws 4 Safety…because moments really do matter!