Can Pets Spread Mold? What Pet Owners Need to Know

11/3/2024 (Permalink)

As pet owners, we love our furry friends, but have you ever thought about whether your pets could be contributing to mold problems in your home? Mold thrives in damp, humid environments, and while pets don’t create mold, they might help spread it without you even knowing. In this blog, we'll explore how pets can contribute to mold growth and share tips on how to keep both your home and pets safe.

What Is Mold and How Does It Spread?

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in moist and humid areas, and it spreads through tiny spores that float in the air. These spores can land on surfaces and start growing if conditions are right. According to the EPA, mold can travel through the air and even hitch a ride on pets. While mold exists both indoors and outdoors, it becomes a problem when it starts growing inside your home. 

Can Pets Spread Mold?

While pets don’t create mold, they can help mold spores move around. When your dog or cat spends time outdoors, they can pick up mold spores on their fur or paws. Once they’re back inside, those spores might fall off and settle in areas of your home, which can lead to mold growth, especially in moist or humid spots.

Here’s how pets can bring mold into your home:

• Outdoor Adventures: Pets that spend time outside, especially in damp or grassy areas, can collect mold spores in their fur.
• Fur and Paws: Spores can cling to your pet’s fur or paws and come inside with them.
• Tracking in Water: If your pet has been out in wet conditions, it might also track in moisture, which can encourage mold growth.

Tips to Prevent Pets from Spreading Mold

There are some simple ways to reduce the chances of mold spreading in your home due to pets:

1. Regular Grooming: Brush your pet regularly to remove any dirt or spores they might have picked up outside.
2. Clean Bedding Frequently: Wash your pet’s bedding, toys, and other fabric items often to prevent mold from settling in.
3. Dry Them Off: After your pet has been outside, especially in wet or damp conditions, dry their fur and paws to avoid bringing moisture indoors.
4. Control Humidity: Use a dehumidifier to keep indoor humidity levels low. Mold thrives in humid conditions, so keeping the air dry helps.
5. Inspect Pet Areas: Regularly check areas where your pet sleeps or spends time for any signs of mold or moisture buildup.

When Should You Call a Professional for Mold?

Even with the best prevention efforts, mold can sometimes still find a way into your home. If you notice mold growth or suspect it’s spreading, especially in places where your pets spend time, it’s important to take action right away.

SERVPRO of Beverly Hills/Westwood is Here to Help® with professional mold remediation services. Our team is trained to identify and remove mold at its source, so you can have peace of mind knowing your home is safe for both you and your pets.

Final Thoughts

Pets can unknowingly bring mold spores into your home, but with regular grooming and a few preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of mold growth. If mold does become a problem, SERVPRO® is ready to step in with expert mold removal services to keep your home clean and mold-free.