Questions about Bee and wasp stings....

coffeechick

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I recently became a homeowner, and I've got this nice fenced-in back yard where my kitty can play without a leash [under constant supervision, though, because I don't want to lose her]. No big surprise, the bestest best new toy outside = bugs. Bees and wasps are, unfortunately, not excluded from that category.

In searching through this forum, I did find a couple of posts about cats and bee stings. My first question: can cats be allergic to bee stings -- that's been answered with a big, scary YES. Just like people, from what I gathered.

I guess my other question is: what do I do if [when?] it happens? And will I know? I'm a little afraid she won't actually...make any noise if something stings her.

I should probably look around for this, too, but I guess this sorta stems from the 'what can I do for a sting' concept. Are there any good books on kitty first aid? I saw one out of print mentioned; are there any still in print? I know a bit about people first aid -- I was a combat medic in the military. Unfortunately, that does nothing for my knowing what to do if a cat gets hurt.

Any help at all is greatly appreciated.
 

maverick_kitten

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when Maverick got stung by a wasp i rang the emergency vet and he said that unless its on their mouth or throat (airways) not to be too worried as it'll only hurt for a bit. just keep an eye on them and if they act funny within an hour or so to bring them in.

it would probably be different for bees as they leave their stings in.
 

huggles

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Originally Posted by maverick_kitten

when Maverick got stung by a wasp i rang the emergency vet and he said that unless its on their mouth or throat (airways) not to be too worried as it'll only hurt for a bit. just keep an eye on them and if they act funny within an hour or so to bring them in.

it would probably be different for bees as they leave their stings in.
I got the exact same response from my vet. The first time Cedar got stung I rushed him to the vet who gave him some medication but said if its not in near the mouth or throat then it should look after itself.
Cedar has been stung once again since then, and although he ballooned up a little he was running around & playing as usual and in the morning the lump had gone down.
Obviously as already suggested keep an eye on her.

I wonder if it is different with bees - I know the last time Cedar was stung it was most defiently a wasp as we had a hive, but I have no idea about the first time.. good point to bring up though.

I dont know any first aid books for cats - do you get along with the vet clinic? I usually just give them a quick call if I have any queries

oh and welcome
 
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