Insect bites and stings in cats – signs and next steps
Contact a vet todayContact your vet today if you think your cat has this – it can become serious. Insect bites and stings are bites or stings from insects that can affect your cat.
What you can do now
- Contact your vet today.
- Note when it started, how often it happens and what else you see.
- Take a photo or short video to show the vet.
- Keep fresh water available.
- Let your cat rest somewhere calm.
Don't
- Do not give your cat any human medicine.
- Do not wait if it gets worse.
What it is
Insect bites and stings can cause mild symptoms in cats, but some cats may have severe swelling or an allergic reaction.[1] Cats are most likely to be bitten or stung on the face or a paw because they may be trying to catch the insect.[1]
Signs
What the experts say
“However, if your cat has been stung/bitten several times, or appears to be having an allergic reaction you’ll need to contact your vet immediately.”
Not sure how serious it is?
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Common questions
Where are cats most likely to be bitten or stung?
Most cats are bitten or stung on the face or a paw.[1]
What signs can insect bites and stings cause?
Signs can include swelling, licking or pawing the area, limping, drooling, hives, breathing difficulties, collapse, vomiting and diarrhoea.[1]
When should I contact a vet immediately?
Contact a vet immediately if your cat has been stung or bitten several times, or appears to be having an allergic reaction.[1]
Sources
How this page was made: written with the help of AI from the sources below, then checked claim by claim against those sources. Urgency levels follow OkPaw’s fixed safety rules. It is guidance, not a diagnosis. How we write our pages
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