As flowers bloom, bees, wasps and other stinging insects become more active, and many dogs and cats cannot resist chasing anything that buzzes. Most stings cause a short burst of pain and a little swelling. Occasionally, though, a sting causes a serious reaction. Knowing the difference helps you respond calmly and quickly.
Where and how pets get stung
Pets usually get stung on the face, mouth or paws, the parts of the body they use to investigate and swat. Dogs who snap at insects may be stung inside the mouth or throat. Pets who step on a bee in the grass may be stung on a paw. Ground-nesting wasps and yellowjackets can sting repeatedly if their nest is disturbed, so a pet who digs into a nest may be stung many times.
Typical signs of a sting
A pet who has just been stung may yelp, paw at its face, lick or chew at a foot, or limp. You may see:
- Localized swelling and redness
- A raised bump, sometimes with a visible stinger
- Drooling, if the sting is in or near the mouth
- Mild restlessness or discomfort
Honeybees can leave a stinger behind. If you see one and your pet will allow it, gently scrape it away with the edge of a credit card or a fingernail rather than squeezing it with tweezers. A cool compress wrapped in a cloth may help with discomfort. Call your veterinarian for advice, even for a mild sting, and ask before giving any medication. Never give your pet human medications unless your veterinarian tells you exactly what and how much.
Signs of an emergency
Some pets have a severe allergic reaction to stings, and multiple stings can be dangerous on their own. Go to your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately if you notice:
- Swelling of the face, muzzle, eyes or throat that is spreading
- Difficulty breathing, noisy breathing or excessive panting
- Hives over the body
- Vomiting or diarrhea soon after the sting
- Weakness, collapse, pale gums or confusion
- Stings inside the mouth or throat
- Many stings at once
Severe reactions can develop quickly, often within minutes to an hour after a sting. If your pet seems to be getting worse, do not wait to see whether it passes. Call ahead on the way so the clinic can prepare.
Reducing the risk
You cannot remove every insect from your pet’s world, but you can lower the odds of trouble. Discourage your dog from snapping at flying insects with a solid “leave it” cue. Watch for nests under decks, in eaves, in the ground and in sheds, and have them handled by a professional if they are in areas your pet uses. Keep outdoor food and sugary drinks covered, since they attract wasps. If your pet has had a significant reaction to a sting in the past, talk to your veterinarian about a plan for future stings.
