Bee and wasp stings in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Updated October 16, 2025
3 min read

Overview

Symptoms

Risk

Diagnosis

Vet treatment

Home treatment

Prevention

When to worry

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Bee and wasp stings in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BVMS
Updated October 16, 2025
3 min read

Bee and wasp stings in cats are fairly common in the warmer months, from spring to autumn. Cats are most often stung on the paw or face. Luckily, the majority of stings only cause mild swelling and irritation. Cats are good at hiding signs of illness, some may not show any obvious symptoms after a sting. Bee and wasp stings are also known as hymenoptera stings.

Serious reactions are rare but they can be life-threatening. Signs of a serious reaction include vomiting, excessive swelling, and breathing difficulties; these need emergency treatment.

What is a bee or wasp sting in cats? >What is a bee or wasp sting in cats? [Overview

Symptoms of bee and wasp stings in cats >Symptoms of bee and wasp stings in cats [Symptoms

Are some cats more at risk of bee and wasp stings than others? >Are some cats more at risk of bee and wasp stings than others? [Risk

How are bee and wasp stings diagnosed in cats? >How are bee and wasp stings diagnosed in cats? [Diagnosis

What’s the vet treatment for bee and wasp stings in cats? >What’s the vet treatment for bee and wasp stings in cats? [Vet treatment

How to look after a cat with a bee or wasp sting at home >How to look after a cat with a bee or wasp sting at home [Home treatment

Tips on how to prevent bee or wasp stings in cats >Tips on how to prevent bee or wasp stings in cats [Prevention

When to worry about bee and wasp stings in cats >When to worry about bee and wasp stings in cats [When to worry

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