Spring is here, which means flowers are blooming and bees are buzzing! Your dog or cat might see a bee as a fun new playmate and decide to chase it around. Unfortunately, this playful interaction can sometimes end with a bee sting on their face, mouth, or paws. While some pets may hardly react, others might have a more serious reaction. Here’s what you need to know to handle a bee sting.
Why do bees sting?
Bees usually sting to defend themselves. If your pet gets too close to a bee or disturbs its hive, the bee might sting to protect itself or its colony. When they sting, bees inject venom that can cause pain, swelling, and sometimes even an allergic reaction.
How can I tell if my pet has been stung?
Bee stings can vary in severity depending on where your pet is stung and how sensitive they are to the venom. Here are some common signs to look out for:
- Swelling: You’ll likely see swelling around the sting site, especially if it’s on their face, paws, or muzzle.
- Redness or heat: The area might appear red or feel warm to touch due to the inflammation.
- Crying, whining or restlessness: Stings can be painful, so your pet might vocalise their pain or act restless, for example, running around in circles or erratically.
- Limping or pawing at the area: They might limp or keep licking, chewing, or pawing at the spot where they were stung.
In most cases, these mild symptoms will go away after a few hours. However, some pets might have more severe reactions, including:
- Allergic reaction: Some dogs and cats are allergic to bee stings, which can lead to hives, difficulty breathing, and even anaphylactic shock—a life-threatening condition.
- Excessive swelling: If there’s swelling around the neck, throat, or mouth, it could make it hard for your pet to breathe.
- Vomiting or diarrhoea: Some pets may experience digestive issues if they have a serious reaction to the venom.
- Weakness or collapse: In extreme cases, pets might go into shock, which requires immediate veterinary care.
What should I do if my pet has been stung?
If your dog or cat gets stung by a bee, here’s how to provide first aid:
- Remove the stinger: If you can see the stinger, gently scrape it out with your fingernail. Avoid using tweezers, as that can push more venom into the skin.
- Apply a cold compress: Use a cold cloth or ice pack wrapped in a towel to reduce swelling and numb the pain. Hold it on the area for 10-15 minutes and repeat as needed.
- Watch for allergic reactions: Keep an eye on your pet for any signs of a serious allergic reaction, like excessive swelling, trouble breathing, or hives. If you notice any of these signs, get them to the vet right away.
When should I head to the vet?
While most bee stings can be managed at home, there are times when you should head to your vet immediately. Here’s what to look out for:
- Severe allergic reactions: If your pet is having trouble breathing, has widespread swelling, or shows signs of shock, take them to the vet or emergency hospital immediately.
- Multiple stings: If your pet has been stung by several bees, they might be at greater risk for severe reactions due to the amount of venom.
- Sting near the face or throat: If the sting is on their face or neck, swelling could block their airway, making it difficult for them to breathe. In this care, take them to your vet immediately.
Being aware of the signs and knowing what to do can help you manage bee stings effectively, keeping your pet safe and happy.
