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My cat got a bee sting, paw swollen but acting fine. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 1 year and 3 months old

My cat got stung by a bee on her front paw. It's a little swollen but she is acting fine. Do I need to do anything for her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on July 3rd, 2016

As long as the swelling is no severe, you do not have to do anything, it will resolve within 24 hours.

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44Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    In most cases of a bee sting, there will be a little swelling and tenderness where the animal was stung. This is a localized reaction to the sting. To stop the venom from spreading, try to remove the stinger as quickly as possible. Removal of the stinger should be done using a credit card to scrape it out. Do not try to squeeze the stinger out with your fingers or use tweezers because the venom sac may rupture, further exposing the pet to more venom. Some dogs and cats may be allergic to bee stings, and they can go into anaphylactic shock (and even die) if they don’t receive immediate veterinary attention. If Lily starts vomiting within five to 10 minutes and her gums become pale, that’s when you know they are going into anaphylactic shock, and you need to take her to a vet immediately. She will need to be treated with IV fluids to prevent shock and give steroids and Benadryl injections into the bloodstream immediately if she has an allergic reaction. Monitor her for signs of a reaction closely.

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    26Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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