When temperatures drop, we often think about how to protect our homes from common overwintering pests. While this is important for avoiding damage to your home’s structure and health risks to your family, it’s also important to think about how certain pests can present dangers to your pets, even if it’s in unsuspecting ways. While many pest species die off in the winter or aren’t as active, some can still present a challenge to pet owners. Being informed is the first step to protecting your furry friends.
Pests that Directly Harm Pets
While fleas and ticks are more prevalent in the summertime, they can present problems during the winter months if they find their way inside your home. Fleas don’t do well outdoors in freezing temperatures, but the warmth of your home provides an ideal environment for them to survive and, unfortunately, wreak havoc on your pets. Once they’ve made their way inside, they nest in carpet, rugs and pet bedding. Their bites cause itching and allergic reactions in pets, and they can even present secondary infections due to biting and scratching the area. Fleas can also transmit diseases and parasites, like tapeworms.
Certain species of ticks can remain active during the winter, presenting danger to your pets if they find their way inside. If left unchecked, they can reproduce indoors, causing the problem to quickly get out of hand. Ticks are harmful because they spread diseases, like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and their bites can become infected. Even some mite species can enter people’s homes during the cooler weather, seeking warmth. While not all are parasitic, they can still irritate pets’ skin and create discomfort.
Pests that Indirectly Harm Pets
Not every pest harms pets directly. Some present threats indirectly. Rodents, for example, are a common problem for homeowners in the winter. While it’s rare for them to bite people’s pets, their droppings and urine can spread diseases to them. If a pet ingests contaminated food or water, or comes in direct contact with a rodent, the transmission of diseases like salmonellosis can occur. Rodents can also carry the dreaded fleas, ticks and mites, which can then be transferred to your pets. Even bats, which are often found roosting in attics in the winter, can carry fleas and mites, increasing exposure to pets if they decide to move to a new host.
Cockroaches can also be a problem for your pets during the colder months. While some species enter a state of hibernation called diapause, most common household cockroaches seek warm, sheltered areas and remain active. This presents issues particularly in kitchens or feeding areas where they can contaminate pet food and bowls, causing allergic reactions. Cockroaches can also transmit diseases and parasites to pets through their droppings or by being ingested.
How to Keep Your Pets Safe
A few simple precautions can make a big difference in protecting your pets from pests during the winter months.
- Start by checking for entry points and sealing them to keep rodents, bats and insects from getting inside.
- Store pet food in airtight containers, and regularly clean pet bowls and feeding areas.
- Frequently wash pet bedding and eliminate clutter around your home that pests can use as hiding spots.
- Check your pets regularly for signs of fleas or ticks, which can indicate the presence of other pest problems.
The best thing you can do to protect your pets from pests in the winter is to hire a professional pest control company for regular inspections and treatments. Pro-Staff, the expert pest control team in Ankeny, can help you prevent infestations and eliminate existing ones, protecting your pets, family and home all year-round. Learn about our residential pest control process or contact us online to get started.
