These insects can be dangerous for dogs

Stuttgart. Many dogs and cats have a strong instinct to hunt and play and try to catch everything that moves. This can be dangerous, especially in spring: As temperatures rise, there are more insects in parks and gardens – and some of them can be harmful to the health of four-legged friends. If dogs or cats snap at spiders, wasps or ants, toxins can be absorbed through their mucous membranes. Eyes and nose are also sensitive. Then quick action is required – especially if four-legged friends are prone to allergic reactions. Jana Hoger, PETA specialist for animal companions and animal psychologist, explains how animal owners recognize contact with insects and react correctly in an emergency.

“Many emergencies can be avoided if people know which insects can be dangerous,” says Jana Hoger. “We appeal to all people with animals to keep a close eye on their dogs and cats, especially in spring and summer, and to seek veterinary help quickly if symptoms are severe.”

Oak processionary moth: The fine stinging hairs of the oak processionary moth caterpillars can cause severe irritation in dogs and cats. Even contact with the hair – even if the animals do not touch the caterpillar directly – can lead to swelling in the mouth, itching, inflammation of the eyes and nose, breathing problems, severe, often bloody vomiting, as well as allergic shock with fever and fatigue.

Immediate action: Never touch your eyes after contact with caterpillar hair. Gently shower dogs with enough water to remove loose stinging hairs; For cats, gently rub the fur with a damp cloth. Rinse the mouth area, nose and eyes with lukewarm water and do not spray the animals directly into the nose. If you experience symptoms such as facial swelling, itching, vomiting, diarrhea or shortness of breath, contact a veterinary professional immediately.

Bees, wasps and hornets: Stings from these insects are painful and can be dangerous if dogs or cats snap at them and get stung in the mouth or throat. Swelling there can quickly and life-threateningly impair breathing. Strong allergic reactions are also possible.

Immediate action: Check whether the animal still has the insect in its mouth and, if necessary, remove it quickly. Cooling helps, but if you experience shortness of breath or severe swelling, you must go to a veterinary practice immediately – be careful, danger to life, every minute counts! If dogs or cats accidentally step on an insect, their paws can be cooled with ice packs or under water. This will relieve the swelling and itching. If the stinger is still stuck in the skin, it must be removed immediately, preferably with careful, stroking movements – do not squeeze! If the swelling does not improve, the animal should be taken to a veterinary professional.

Grasshoppers and Locusts: Although they are not poisonous, their legs have barbs that can cause injuries to the mouth area. If the animals are swallowed, individual body parts can get stuck in the esophagus. Typical signs include gagging, vomiting or loss of appetite.

Immediate action: Visit a veterinary practice if symptoms persist.

Nosferatu Spider: The bite of the Nosferatu spider is similar to a wasp sting. It can cause local swelling, pain and redness.

Immediate action: In most cases, cooling is sufficient. However, if dogs or cats react severely or are allergic, a veterinary practice should be consulted immediately.

Asian lady beetle: The beetle, which originally comes from East Asia, has also spread to Germany in recent years and can secrete a yellowish defensive secretion that can be toxic to dogs and cats. If it is ingested, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea or irritation of the mucous membranes.

Immediate action: Rinse the mouth area and observe the animal. If symptoms persist, veterinary attention is necessary.

Red ants: Red ants secrete an irritating secretion, which is why their bites are very painful for dogs and cats. Swelling, redness or small pustules often occur.

Immediate action: Cooling relieves the pain. In the case of severe reactions or known allergies, an antihistamine recommended by the veterinary practice may be necessary.

Stink bugs and oil beetles: These animals are not poisonous, but simply release a foul-smelling defensive secretion. If dogs or cats ingest them, it can cause salivation, nausea or mild diarrhea.

Immediate action: As a rule, the symptoms subside quickly. Rinsing the mouth area can help.

Preventive measures

• Keep an eye on animals in the garden or on meadows. If dogs or cats suddenly make painful noises or behave abnormally, their mouth area and paws should be checked.
• Do not leave food and sweet drinks open in summer.
• Do not remove wasp or hornet nests yourself – hire professionals.
• If you suspect oak processionary moths, immediately keep your distance and choose a different walking route.
• If you have known allergies, have emergency medication ready. We recommend that you seek appropriate advice from your trusted veterinary practice.