Finding evidence of bedbugs in your home can be shocking, especially if you are a stickler for cleaning. However, these critters can thrive in clean environments. Even if you and your family are as careful as possible, these pests can still affect your pets.

A Pet Owner’s Guide to Bedbugs

Can the bites cause illness?

Bedbugs do not transmit diseases to humans or pets, but their bites will leave itchy bumps on the skin. Scratching too much may cause infection if bacteria enter the skin through the nails or fingers. If a bite is infected, you may experience additional swelling, drainage, or a fever.

How does an infestation start?

Bedbugs are small and excellent at hiding, so they can be carried into your home through luggage, furniture, clothing, and your pet’s fur.

Female bedbugs will lay one to five eggs per day in any small crevice they can find. Since the eggs hatch within just two weeks, an infestation can start rather suddenly. Additionally, each female bedbug can lay up to 500 eggs in her six-month lifetime.

What are the signs of infestation?

There are a few ways to tell if you have an infestation besides finding a live bug on your pet or in your home. Itchy, red bites on your skin or under your pet’s fur often mean these pests are present. You may also find translucent exoskeletons and black bug droppings in the crevices of your mattress.

Will extermination treatment hurt my pet?

Professionally treating the affected areas of your home may be necessary to eradicate the infestation. If this is the case, keep your pet away from the area while an exterminator applies the treatment.

Your pet should avoid the area until the treatment is complete and the room has been fully ventilated. You can also contact your veterinarian in advance with questions and concerns regarding bedbug treatment and your pet’s health.

 

If you need assistance with bedbug control, the experts at Collins Exterminating in Bolivar, MO, can help. This family-owned company has over 57 years of experience and provides effective services and reliable results. Their team of certified exterminators also uses advanced techniques to ensure that pests don’t return. For more information, visit the website or call (417)-326-2124.