INSECT BITES & STINGS

NOTE: if you are concerned regarding ticks or tick bites, please see our Lyme Disease topic page. If you feel your pet may be being bitten by fleas, see our Flea topic page.

General Information

Most dogs and cats respond to insect stings or bites with slight swelling and redness in the affected area.

In some cases, however, a more severe reaction causes generalized swelling, hives, pain or itching over a large area of the body. Very commonly, the head and feet will swell first and the most. A few animals suffer an extreme allergic reaction, with difficult breathing, collapse and sometimes death. Multiple stings or bites intensify the reaction.

If Stung or Bitten:

1. Inspect all insect stings or bites whenever the site can be identified. Remove the stinger with tweezers if it is lodged in the skin.

2. Pets showing more than a small swelling at the site of the sting should at least call a veterinarian, he/she may suggest over-the-counter medication, or may want to examine and treat your pet.

3. If your pet has had severe allergic reactions to insect stings or bites previously, the doctor may suggest that you obtain an emergency treatment kit to have on hand.

4. Warm, moist cloths can be applied at the site of the sting or bite in pets with only localized reactions. These compresses may help relieve pain or discomfort. For "hotter" areas, or mild swellings, cold compresses or ice might be used initially.

 

Notify your veterinarian if:

* Your pet does not respond to treatment.

* Your pet develops ulceration, redness or more than just a mild swelling at the site of the sting or bite.

* Your pet’s general health declines.