Boxelder bugs are quite a common insect found in the US and Canada, and they are often seen as a nuisance pest more than anything since they are harmless. These bugs like to gather in quite large numbers. They congregate in sunny places. Many people wonder if boxelder bugs are harmful to cats, as cats are very curious about nature and may even choose to play or attack them.
Boxelder bugs are not normally harmful to cats as these insects do not carry diseases that can be transmitted to cats, nor do they bite or sting. However, it is important to note that cats may still be curious about boxelder bugs and may even try to eat them. Ingesting large numbers of boxelder bugs can potentially cause digestive issues or upset stomachs in cats, although this is pretty rare.
While boxelder bugs themselves are not harmful to cats, there are some risks associated with the methods people may use to control these insects. For example, some insecticides that are used to kill boxelder bugs can be toxic to cats if ingested. Some people might resort to other measures such as pesticides and depending how young your cat may be, it can potentially harm these cats.
You might not be surprised to find out that boxelder bugs are also social insects that tend to congregate in large numbers since they are always seen in significant numbers together. This means that if one boxelder bug finds a warm, comfortable spot in your home, others are likely to follow. Before you know it, you could be dealing with a full-blown infestation.
These insects can leave behind a foul odor, stain fabrics and surfaces with their droppings, and may even be the reason why allergies flare up in some individuals. Additionally, boxelder bugs are notorious for their ability to attract other pests, such as spiders and rodents, which may cause further problems for homeowners.
If you are dealing with a boxelder bug infestation, there are several steps you can take to control their numbers. One very effective method is to seal off any potential entry points into your home, such as cracks in walls and windows. Additionally, you may want to consider removing any boxelder trees or other sap-producing plants from your property. If you do choose to remove trees, be sure to do so during the winter months when boxelder bugs are hibernating to avoid inadvertently dispersing them further.
If the amount of boxelder bugs that you are dealing with is too great, then it is highly recommended to call in the help of a professional pest control technician that is licensed and insured. Professionals have the skills and the means to conduct a detailed inspection, determine places of high boxelder bug activity, and exterminate the presence with commercial-grade pesticides not available to the public. Call 226-778-3098