Is a Cat Stung by a Bee Dangerous? Know How to Heal

Illustration of a cat being stung by a bee is it dangerous (Freepic)

YOGYAKARTA – Cats like to play and insects can be their prey. If your cat at home likes to play and gets stung by a bee, you may be wondering whether the effects are dangerous. However, in general cases, cats stung by bees can heal on their own. It just requires first aid from its owner.

In certain cases, cats can experience allergies after being stung by bees or other insects. To provide first aid, you need to observe the type of sting experienced. Types of wasps and bees have different stings. Wasps have a straight stinger that doesn't come off when stung. This means that a wasp can sting many times. This is different from bees whose stingers are released when they sting. So each bee can only sting once and the sting remains in the skin.

The signs of a bee sting are often not obvious. However, cats often endure and hide their pain. Stings are more common in cats that are young and have access to the open air. Usually, cats are stung by bees on their feet and face. This means they may be seen limping, have small lumps or be slightly swollen.

Illustration of a cat stung by a bee (Freepik/wirestock)

The first aid that can be given is to provide a safe place. Even if a single sting doesn't cause a severe reaction, a bee or wasp may still be near the pet that was stung. So they don't get stung again, keep them safe.

If your cat is stung by a bee, it is important to remove the stinger immediately. You can raise it with cards. According to PetKeen, Friday, September 6, do not pinch the stinger with tweezers because it can destroy the poison sac inside and make the sting worse.

Once the sting is removed, evaluate the extent of the cat's injury. Run your hand through the cat's fur to make sure there are no other stings. Monitor the symptoms to see if the allergic reaction is not more severe.

Most insect stings do not require veterinary treatment. However, if your cat at home is stung several times around the mouth, you should immediately contact a veterinarian.

Illustration of how to provide first aid to a cat stung by a bee (Freepik)

If there is swelling at the site of the bee sting, apply a cold compress to relieve symptoms. Can also be compressed with frozen vegetables or cold towels. The sting marks may only appear minor at first. But further monitoring is needed to see signs of a severe reaction. If a more severe allergic reaction occurs, immediately take your beloved cat to the vet.

Signs of allergic symptoms after a cat is stung by a bee, including experiencing diarrhea or urinating that is not normal, swollen muzzle or tongue, vomiting, looking itchy, weak and lethargic, cold limbs, drooling, difficulty breathing, and pale gums. This is a sign to watch out for. If a cat experiences anaphylactic shock, so that it doesn't have fatal consequences, it must be taken to a doctor immediately.