'I'm a vet and if you're pet is stung by a wasp you must do this immediately'

Pets are more susceptible to stings from insects, wasps and bees than humans due to their curious nature and tendency to chase flying bugs.

As the world heats up, there's been a surge in sting incidents among pets, with warmer weather boosting insect populations. According to May's data, vets have seen an increase in such cases.

With wasps, horse flies, ticks, and bees all buzzing about, it's crucial to keep a close eye on your furry friends and take immediate action if something seems off.

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Signs of a sting can include sudden yelping or continuous licking of the affected area. It's also vital to look out for swelling, which could indicate a serious reaction.

Matt Cayless, founder of UK pet marketing agency Bubblegum Search, advises: "Cover outdoor food and water bowls when not in use. These attract wasps to areas where your pets spend time. Avoid [walks during] peak wasp hours between 10am and 4pm. Early morning or evening walks reduce encounter risks.", reports the Express.

He added: "Natural deterrents work well around gardens. Cucumber slices and mint plants discourage wasps without harming pets, unlike chemical options that may cause problems."

Bubblegum Search also sought advice from Dr. Berkcan Yanar, a licensed vet and reviewer at PawsRank, on what to do if your pet gets stung this summer.

Pet stings

When a pet gets stung by a wasp, bee, or horsefly, the vet explains he usually spots very localised symptoms at first: sudden yelping or licking at a specific area, swelling, redness, or a bump.

The vet explains: "Sometimes pets will limp if the sting is on the paw, or scratch at their face if it's near the muzzle. In most minor stings, the reaction is localised; however, I recommend that owners monitor for swelling of the head or throat, vomiting, weakness, or alterations in breathing, as these are indicative of a more severe allergic reaction. Any sudden collapse, pale gums, or respiratory distress is an emergency."

What to do straight away

Dr Yanar advises calmly restraining pets to prevent further injury before checking the sting site.

The vet explains: "If you see a bee stinger, remove it by scraping it sideways with a credit card rather than pinching it, since pinching will release more venom."

The experienced veterinarian recommends applying a cool compress for several minutes to reduce pain and swelling. He also warns: "If your pet is showing any other symptoms besides mild local irritation, seek immediate contact with your veterinarian while continuing to keep your pet cool and calm."

When does it become an emergency?

According to Dr Yanar, a sting or bite turns into an emergency for cats or dogs when there are signs of anaphylaxis or a serious allergic reaction. These warning signs include: Dr Yanar warns: "Immediate veterinary attention is necessary, as severe cases can be life-threatening if not treated promptly."

How to prevent your pets from getting stung this summer.

The key to preventing bites and stings during the summer is to control your pet's surroundings and environment. During walks, avoid letting your pets sniff around flowers, bushes, or leaf piles where insects might be hiding.

In your garden, removing sweet-smelling blooms or rotting fruit will reduce the number of bees and wasps visiting. When playing outside, it's recommended to keep a close eye on your pet and avoid times when insect activity is at its peak, such as the midday heat when horseflies and wasps are most active.

Are over-the-counter treatments safe?

Over-the-counter medications can be problematic for pets. While certain antihistamines, like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can be safe if given in the correct dosage, they should always be administered under veterinary supervision.

Dr Yanar advises: "Human topical creams, such as hydrocortisone or calamine lotion, can be toxic if ingested through licking, and most natural oils marketed for insect bites are toxic to dogs and cats. I recommend that owners avoid these unless they have previously consulted their veterinarian about particular safe products and dosages for their pet."