What to do if Your Pet Gets Stung by a Bee

What Should You Do if Your Pet Has Been Stung by a Bee?

Warm weather brings out stinging insects like bees and wasps and many dogs and cats cannot resist chasing them.  In most cases, a sting or bite from an insect is not life-threatening. However, there is a chance of a dog or cat having an anaphylactic reaction from a sting and going into shock.  This is more likely to occur if your pet is stung multiple times. 

Treating a bee sting in a dog or cat is similar to treating yourself.  If your pet is stung, remove any embedded stingers by scraping them out with a credit card or your finger.  Do not grasp the stinger with tweezers or squeeze it as this can inject more venom. Gently clean the area and, if it is red, swollen or painful, you can apply a dab of hydrocortisone cream or a paste of baking soda and water.  An ice pack may also help.  Mild swelling or hives can be treated with an antihistamine such as Benadryl.  Contact your veterinarian for dosing. If your pet seems really painful, your vet may prescribe an anti-inflammatory such as Rimadyl or other pain medication.

     While a single sting is likely to only cause minor discomfort and localized swelling or maybe hives, multiple stings could cause life-threatening symptoms such as difficulty breathing or even anaphylactic shock, especially if stung in the face or mouth.   Seek veterinary attention immediately if your pet collapses, has pale gums, is vomiting, or is having difficulty breathing.

                This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.