Love bugs may seem harmless — slow, floating, and mostly ignored by people — but outdoor cats often see them as moving toys. While a curious swat or chase may look innocent, love bugs can pose health risks for cats who spend time hunting in the yard.
Why Love Bugs Can Be a Problem for Cats
Most insects aren’t toxic to pets, and love bugs fall into that general category. The trouble isn’t poison — it’s what happens when a cat eats too many of them or gets into areas where love bugs collect.
Potential Risks Include:
- Stomach Upset:
Eating love bugs in small amounts is usually harmless, but a cat that snacks on them repeatedly may end up with vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Their bodies are difficult for cats to digest and can irritate the stomach. - Impaction or Obstruction:
Large numbers of love bugs can clump together. If a cat consumes a “cluster,” the undigested shell-like exoskeleton can lead to blockage in the intestines. - Exposure to Harmful Residues:
Love bugs gather around cars, garages, doorframes, and window areas — places where chemical cleaners, oils, or pesticides may be present. Cats hunting near these spots can ingest more than just insects. - Secondary Irritation:
Although love bugs don’t bite or sting, they can irritate the mouth or throat if a cat eats too many at once. Excessive drooling, coughing, or pawing at the mouth may occur.
Why Outdoor Cats Are Most at Risk
Cats with a strong prey drive are naturally drawn to moving insects. An outdoor cat may:
- Chase swarms during peak season
- Hunt near carports or driveways where love bugs gather
- Eat insects out of boredom, not hunger
Because love bug season hits in waves, some cats repeat this behavior for days at a time, increasing the chance of stomach or intestinal issues.
Signs Your Cat May Have Eaten Too Many Love Bugs
Watch for:
- Vomiting or gagging
- Diarrhea
- Drooling or lip-smacking
- Lethargy or hiding
- Decreased appetite
- Straining in the litter box
If symptoms last more than 12–24 hours, it’s time to call us.
How to Keep Your Cat Safe
Outdoor exploration doesn’t have to stop, but small changes can make a big difference.
- Limit free-roaming during peak love bug hours (late morning and early afternoon).
- Keep garage doors closed so cats can’t hunt near car residue or chemicals.
- Provide indoor enrichment (puzzle feeders, wand toys, cat shelves) to satisfy their prey drive safely.
- Rinse love bugs off walls, doors, and cars to reduce clusters that attract curious cats.
- Transition outdoor cats to supervised time or enclosed “catio” spaces.
When to Call DAMC
If your cat is vomiting repeatedly, isn’t acting like themselves, or you’re worried they may have eaten many love bugs, give us a call. Early care prevents complications — especially if dehydration or a blockage is possible.
📞 Dunedin Animal Medical Center
727-738-2273
We’re here to help keep your outdoor-loving cats healthy through every season — even love bug season.