Mosquitoes do bite and are infamous for their annoying biting behavior. They target humans and animals, adapting their feeding preferences based on availability and ease of access. The aftermath of their bites can range from simple skin irritation and rashes to more severe allergic reactions.
Despite their small size, mosquitoes are among the most deadly animals worldwide because they can transmit diseases such as malaria, Zika, and dengue fever. Thankfully, cases of these diseases are rare in Mid-South TN – so you’ll most likely experience mild symptoms like red bumps if you get bitten.
Why Do Mosquitoes Bite People and Animals?
The primary reason mosquitoes bite is to harvest nutrients from blood, which are crucial for egg development. The process often described as a “bite” is more accurately a piercing act, where the female mosquito uses her proboscis to penetrate the skin.
The proboscis is uniquely designed with two tubes – one for injecting an enzyme-rich saliva that acts as a painkiller, anticoagulant, and blood thinner, facilitating smoother feeding. The other is for extracting blood from the host. This efficient system allows mosquitoes to feed quickly and with minimal detection, enhancing their chances of a successful meal.
After feeding, a female mosquito can breed and lay eggs, thus continuing her lifecycle. Interestingly, male mosquitoes do not bite and instead feed on nectar, as they do not have the biological need to produce eggs.
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Do Mosquitoes Bite Dogs or Cats?
Yes – mosquitoes do not discriminate in their choice of hosts and will bite domestic animals, such as cats and dogs. Cats often have better protection thanks to their thicker coats, but they are still vulnerable to bites on their ears and noses. Short-haired dogs are more exposed and can suffer from frequent bites, which may cause irritation and discomfort.
Beyond the annoyance, mosquito bites can transmit diseases to pets much like they do to humans. Heartworm disease, for instance, is a significant health issue for dogs and can be transmitted through mosquito bites.
So protecting pets from mosquitoes involves preventive measures like mosquito repellents specifically designed for pets. Keeping living areas free from standing water where mosquitoes breed is best achieved by bringing in professional mosquito control.
Mosquito Bite Symptoms
Mosquito bites typically occur on parts of the body that are exposed and accessible to mosquitoes.
- Itching is the most common symptom associated with mosquito bites, and excessive scratching can exacerbate the irritation, potentially leading to secondary infections, bruising, or rashes.
- Small pinkish-red bumps are the immediate reaction to a mosquito bite. These bumps, often irritating, can increase in size and change color over a couple of days. Commonly, the diameter of these bumps is less than ½ inch.
- In rare cases, fever, significant headaches, nausea, and extreme fatigue may occur, particularly if the mosquito transmits a pathogen. Such symptoms are serious and should prompt an immediate consultation with a healthcare provider to rule out any mosquito-borne illness.
Stop Mosquito Bites Today
While individual preventive measures like using repellents and eliminating standing water can reduce mosquito populations, these steps alone may not be enough to control mosquitoes effectively around your home.
Inman-Murphy, Inc. offers a comprehensive approach that includes identifying and treating breeding grounds, applying safe and effective insecticides, and implementing integrated pest management strategies tailored to your specific environment. We also make sure that the methods and products we use are safe for your family and pets, providing peace of mind along with relief from mosquitoes.
Don’t let mosquitoes take over your outdoor spaces and threaten your health. Contact us today for a free service quote and reclaim your comfort and safety!