We all know how annoying mosquito bites can be—but have you ever wondered if your pets feel the same way? The answer is yes. Dogs and cats can absolutely be irritated by mosquito bites, and in some cases, they can even suffer from mosquito-borne diseases.
In this post, we’ll explore how mosquitoes affect pets, what to watch out for, and the best ways to protect your furry family members from these buzzing pests.
🦟 Can Mosquitoes Bite Dogs and Cats?
Yes, mosquitoes can bite both dogs and cats. Just like humans, animals have blood that mosquitoes feed on. Dogs and cats can be bitten anywhere their fur is thin or the skin is exposed—around the ears, nose, belly, and legs are common targets.
You might notice your pet:
Scratching or licking a specific spot
Developing small red bumps or welts
Acting restless or irritated after spending time outdoors
While one bite might just be an annoyance, repeated exposure can lead to allergic reactions or infections if the skin becomes irritated.
🧬 Can Mosquitoes Make Pets Sick?
Unfortunately, mosquito bites aren’t just itchy—they can be dangerous. Certain mosquito species carry diseases that affect pets differently than humans.
In Dogs:
The biggest concern is heartworm disease, a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by parasitic worms transmitted through mosquito bites. According to the American Heartworm Society, just one infected mosquito can transmit heartworm larvae, which grow and spread through a dog’s bloodstream, eventually reaching the heart and lungs.
In Cats:
Cats are less likely to develop full-blown heartworm infections, but even immature worms can cause heartworm-associated respiratory disease (HARD), leading to coughing, lethargy, or breathing issues.
Other mosquito-borne diseases that can occasionally affect pets include:
West Nile Virus (rare but possible in both dogs and cats)
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) in certain geographic areas
These conditions underscore why mosquito prevention for pets is just as important as for humans.
🐾 How Dogs and Cats React to Mosquito Bites
Just like us, pets have different sensitivities:
Dogs may scratch, chew, or rub the bite site excessively. Some can develop dermatitis or hot spots from irritation.
Cats often lick or over-groom the area, sometimes leading to small bald patches.
In severe cases, mosquito bites can trigger allergic reactions or secondary infections if the skin becomes broken or inflamed.
If your pet shows signs of discomfort or swelling after a bite, contact your veterinarian for advice—especially if symptoms persist.
🏡 How to Protect Pets from Mosquitoes
Here are some vet-recommended steps to keep your pets safe year-round:
Use veterinarian-approved preventatives
Ask your vet about monthly heartworm prevention medications for dogs and cats.Keep pets indoors during peak mosquito hours
Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk—limit outdoor playtime during these hours.Eliminate standing water around your home
Empty bowls, planters, and puddles regularly to stop mosquitoes from breeding.Use pet-safe repellents
Avoid DEET-based products. Instead, try vet-approved repellents or natural alternatives formulated for pets.Install screens and fans
Mosquitoes dislike moving air—fans and screened windows can help keep them out.
For more tips on year-round prevention, check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s mosquito prevention guide.
💚 Do Mosquitoes Prefer Certain Pets?
Interestingly, mosquitoes may prefer some pets over others. They’re drawn to carbon dioxide, body heat, and scent, so larger or more active animals (like dogs) can attract more bites than cats. However, both can be at risk—especially in warm, humid areas or during mild winters.
❄️ Protecting Pets in Winter
Even in winter, mosquitoes can survive indoors or in heated areas. Keeping your home dry and checking for standing water indoors is key. For more information on cold-weather mosquito activity, read our related post:
👉 Can Mosquitoes Breed Indoors During Winter?
🐕 Final Thoughts
So, do pets hate mosquitoes too? Absolutely. Dogs and cats not only find bites itchy and irritating but can also suffer serious health consequences from them.
Protecting your pets means protecting your whole family—so keep up with preventatives, eliminate standing water, and make mosquito control part of your regular pet care routine and contact us today for a free inspection!
