What to do if Your Pet Gets Stung by a Bee
Image courtesy of Many Pets.
Friends and Neighbors,
As we all get out and explore the summer sun with our pets, the busy bees are sure to join us! What’s the sitch on bee stings? Knowing how to handle a bee sting can make all the difference for your pet's comfort and safety. In this article, we'll cover symptoms to look for, immediate actions to take, and when to seek veterinary care.
Symptoms in Dogs
Swelling
especially around the face and paws
Drooling
Vomiting
Itching
Diarrhea
Shortness of breath
Symptoms in Cats
Licking excessively
Swelling
Vocalizations
meowing more than usual
Limping
Hives
Excessive drooling
Immediate Actions to Take
Remove the Stinger: If you can see the stinger, carefully remove it using your fingernails. If that doesn’t work, try a pair of tweezers, but be gentle to avoid squeezing more venom into the wound.
No Human Medications: Do not give your pet over-the-counter human medications like antihistamines or pain relievers. Your veterinarian will advise you on what medications should be involved.
Contact Your Veterinarian: If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, reach out to your veterinarian for next steps. They can provide guidance on how to manage the situation and whether additional treatment is needed.
Emergency Symptoms: If your pet becomes extremely lethargic, unconscious, or has difficulty breathing after a bee sting, take them to the nearest emergency veterinarian immediately. These symptoms can indicate a severe allergic reaction that requires urgent medical attention.
Bee stings are not always an immediate emergency situation, but can range in severity. Remain cognizant of bees while your pet is outdoors. Keep an eye on them and be sure to give them a full snout-to-tail check once back inside. If you notice your pet behaving strangely after spending time outdoors, always contact us. It’s better to be on the safe side and work together to ensure their safety.
We hope you find these tips useful and that they help keep your pets happy and healthy! Contact us if you have any questions or would like to schedule a visit. We’re always here for you and your pets!
Sincerely,
The BLVD Team