Bites on dogs and cats will look much like bites on people, and the pet owner may actually suspect a mosquito or flea bit the pet. As with people, bed bugs do not stay on pets, but return to a protected harborage site after feeding. In addition to bites, the presence of the bug’s feces, cast skins and the animal’s irritation at night are also indicators of bed bugs biting pets. Therefore, one of the best things to do is inspect the pet’s bedding and frequently groom the animal while being vigilant for the telltale signs of bed bug presence.

• Bed bugs do not live on the pets per se but they might do so when they are unable to find a human victim.
   

• Bed bug bites on cats or dogs can cause acute skin irritation, pink welts or spots on the skin, intense itching and even allergic dermatitis.
   

• If your pet is losing a great deal of hair, and if it is not from ticks, fleas or usual shedding reasons, then there is a possibility you are having bed bugs in the home. Bed bug bites on dogs and cats have been known to cause patchy hair loss, rashes, hives, blisters and even irritability or anxiety in the pets.
   

• Other than these signs, pet owners must also look for discarded exoskeletons of the bugs and their fecal stains. These are typically brown, red or rust colored spots and stains in and around the pet’s bedding.
   

• If you are wondering how you got the bed bug infestation, then there is a strong possibility of them having hitchhiked their way into your home. Bed bugs are capable of traveling large distances through luggage, clothing etc. They can also travel on your pet’s fur or on its bedding.
   

• Bed bugs, as mentioned above, do not live on the dog or cat’s fur. They prefer cooler regions to hide when they are not feeding.
  ​

If you see these signs of bed bug bites on dogs or cats, then it is important to take the matter seriously in order to prevent larger problems.