Are Cockroaches Attracted to Poop?

“I’ve spotted roaches near where my dog goes in the yard. Do roaches eat poop and could they bring germs into my kitchen?”

Yes, cockroaches can be attracted to poop, including dog feces, as they use the organic matter as food.

Why are cockroaches attracted to dog feces?
Because waste contains leftover nutrients, it’s a potential meal for opportunistic, scavenging cockroaches. Pet waste left in yards, soiled litter boxes, and indoor accidents provide roaches with feeding opportunities so they can thrive.

Do cockroaches eat poop from other sources?
Yes. They can consume other animals’ droppings and even those of fellow roaches. Some species also inhabit sewers and drains, where they regularly live on sewage and decaying material.

Can cockroaches bring waste into my home?
Roaches moving from contaminated areas into kitchens and bathrooms of both homes and businesses, can transfer bacteria onto food, utensils, countertops, pet bowls, and other surfaces. If you spot a roach, it’s best to assume it’s crawled through something unhygienic such as a sewer. To avoid taking risks with cockroaches and faeces:

• Pick up dog waste promptly
• Scoop litter boxes daily
• Bag waste before placing it in securely lidded trash cans
• Clean indoor accidents
• Wash pet bowls regularly
• Repair leaks
• Reduce other roach attractions

Are you finding cockroaches? Contact JP Pest Services for Cockroach Control Services to identify hiding places and address infestations.