Boxelder bugs are commonly found in the US and Canada and are often seen as a nuisance pest. These bugs like to gather in large numbers and congregate in sunny places. While some bugs may present dangers to humans, others can be even more dangerous to animals. So many people wonder if boxelder bugs are harmful to cats, as cats are curious creatures and may even choose to eat them. The question in the mind of most cat owners is: Are boxelder bugs poisonous to cats?
Boxelder bugs are not harmful to cats because they do not carry diseases that can be transmitted to cats and do not bite or sting. However, ingesting large numbers of boxelder bugs can cause an upset stomach. Read on to learn more about the potential health risks of boxelder bugs to cats and how to prevent and control them.
What Are Boxelder Bugs?
Boxelder bugs (Boisea trivittatus) are about half an inch long and have a unique black and red coloration. Their name is derived from the boxelder tree, which is their primary host. These insects are sometimes called box elder beetles and maple bugs. These bugs thrive well in warm weather and are often seen congregating in large numbers on the sunny sides of buildings or boxelder trees.
Are Boxelder Bugs Poisonous to Cats?
Boxelder bugs are not poisonous to cats. Be rest assured that your pets are unlikely to suffer any serious harm from boxelder bugs. These insects don’t bite or sting, so no need to worry about the health of your furry companions.
What Happens When My Cat Eats Boxelder Bugs?
Boxelder bugs are not poisonous, and they taste bad. You don’t need to worry if your cat eats one or two boxelder bugs. However, if ingested in large quantities, these bugs can cause upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting, and excess salivation. If you’re concerned about the well-being of your cat after consuming a boxelder bug, contact your veterinarian for additional guidance.
Potential Health Risk Of Boxelder Bugs To Cats
It is important to note that boxelder bugs are not toxic or harmful to cats. They are generally harmless, and their primary food source is the sap of boxelder trees. However, while they may not pose a direct threat to cats, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Digestive Issues
Digestive concerns might arise when your cat consumes a boxelder bug, as the insect’s hard exoskeleton can pose some challenges during digestion. The exoskeleton might not break down completely, and the undigested parts will pass through your cat’s digestive tract and be expelled from its feces.
Gastrointestinal Upset
Your cat is prone to gastrointestinal upset after ingesting a boxelder bug. Your feline friend might experience diarrhea and vomiting. These symptoms are temporary and will subside within a day or two. However, if your cat exhibits prolonged digestive distress, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Potential Allergies
Cats can develop allergies to certain substances. Although boxelder bugs are not commonly known to trigger allergies in cats, some cats can still have an adverse reaction to the bugs. Here are the symptoms of an allergic reaction to boxelder bugs:
- Excessive scratching
- Skin irritation
- Sneezing
- Difficulty breathing or swelling
If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, it’s best to seek veterinary advice.
Prevention And Control
Now that you know boxelder bugs do not pose a serious threat to your cats, it is still important to keep their presence to a minimum. So here are a few tips to prevent boxelder bugs from invading your home:
Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any gaps or cracks where boxelder bugs can enter and seal them off immediately. This method will help keep them from finding their way inside the house.
Remove Any Attractants: Boxelder bugs are usually drawn to warmth and light, so consider keeping doors and windows closed or screened to prevent their entry. You can also consider removing boxelder trees or their seeds near your house, as this can reduce the bugs’ attraction.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re dealing with a severe boxelder bug infestation, it is best to seek professional pest control assistance. They can provide effective solutions to eliminate the bugs and prevent future invasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it Okay For Cats to Eat Boxelder Bugs?
Boxelder bugs aren’t dangerous to your feline but can make them feel sick when ingested. Thankfully, these bugs have an extremely foul taste, so most cats will avoid eating large quantities.
What other bugs are dangerous for cats?
Certain insects, like spiders, centipedes, and specific beetles, may pose a higher risk to cats than boxelder bugs. For example, fireflies and some caterpillars are extremely toxic if ingested.
Why does my cat like to play with boxelder bugs?
Cats are curious creatures and natural hunters. They may find boxelder bugs interesting to chase due to their movement and small size. Most cats play with them for entertainment rather than to eat them. Only a few cats eat them out of curiosity.
Can boxelder bugs make cats sick?
Eating a few (one or two) boxelder bugs generally won’t harm a cat, but ingesting many could lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. Cats may experience vomiting, drooling, or diarrhea if they eat multiple bugs.
Are boxelder bugs toxic to cats?
The answer is a straightforward no. Boxelder bugs are not toxic to cats. While they contain small amounts of chemicals that are unappealing to predators, they are not considered poisonous if ingested.
How do I know if I have a boxelder bug?
Boxelder bugs release a pungent odor when threatened or crushed. This odor can be unpleasant and pervasive if there are large numbers of them present. Additionally, these bugs can leave behind reddish-orange stains on surfaces they come into contact with, such as walls, curtains, or furniture.
Final Thoughts
Boxelder bugs are not poisonous or toxic to cats. While swallowing a few bugs shouldn’t cause any major health issues, it’s best to discourage your cats from snacking on them. Keep in mind that eating large quantities of bugs may lead to minor stomach upset or gastrointestinal discomfort. If you have a severe boxelder bug infestation, seek professional help.
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