Pet bee or wasp sting

1. 1

   Find and remove the stinger

   Bee stingers stay in; wasp stingers don't. Scrape sideways with a credit card or fingernail to remove a bee stinger. Don't squeeze with tweezers — that pumps in more venom.

   Tip: Stings on the paw cause limping; on the face cause swelling. Check between toes carefully.
2. 2

   Cool the area

   Apply a cold pack wrapped in a thin cloth for 10 minutes. A paste of baking soda and water dabbed on the sting helps neutralize bee venom.

3. 3

   Give an antihistamine — ask your vet for the dose

   Plain diphenhydramine (Benadryl, no decongestants, no Tylenol added) is generally safe for dogs at 1 mg per pound. Always confirm dose with your vet first. Cats: only with vet guidance.

   Important: Never give your pet any human medication without checking — many (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, decongestants) are toxic to pets, especially cats.
4. 4

   Watch for 1 hour — anaphylaxis can move fast

   Severe reaction signs: facial swelling that closes the eyes, hives all over, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, pale gums, collapse, difficulty breathing. Rush to the emergency vet immediately if any appear.

5. 5

   Multiple stings = always emergency vet

   More than a handful of stings is a venom-load emergency regardless of allergy.

   Important: Stings inside the mouth or throat can swell and block the airway. Any sting in the mouth or repeated pawing at the face — go to the vet now.

Guidance only — in any emergency, call 911.