Vet issues summer warning for cats facing common threat this summer – top signs to look out for

PetPlan Guest Blog

As the weather warms up and pets spend more time outdoors, their risk of being stung rises. With bees becoming more active and more likely to sting in August (as their natural food sources dwindle, leading bees to aggressively defend their hives), Petplan is sharing what owners need to know to keep their cats safe this summer.

Cats can be very good at hiding pain, meaning a sting may not be immediately obvious – particularly if you weren’t there when it happened.

Signs of an allergic reaction to an insect sting can include:

Some cats – like some people – can experience a severe and potentially dangerous allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to insect venom. This usually occurs within the first hour, but can develop over several hours.

Contact your vet immediately if you spot any of these signs in your pet:

• Severe swelling around the face, throat or eyes, which could affect the airways

• Wheezing or difficulty breathing

• Vomiting or diarrhoea

• Excessive drooling

• Dizziness or weakness

• Seizures, collapse or disorientation

• Pale gums

What happens if your cat is stung?

If your cat is stung by a bee or wasp, they will usually experience pain, irritation and mild swelling at the site, much like a human would. In most cases, this discomfort should ease after a short time.

However, multiple stings – for example, if a cat disturbs a beehive – or stings around the mouth or throat, where swelling could obstruct breathing, can be more serious. Stings that trigger an allergic reaction may also require urgent veterinary attention.

Which cat breeds took out the most insect sting claims in 2025 with Petplan? 

• Domestic Shorthair- 87 claims

• Moggy- 33 claims

• British Shorthair- 31 claims

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For further information about the dangers, signs and symptoms relating to bee stings, please see Petplan’s page here- including expert vet commentary from Dr Brian Faulkner and below: https://www.petplan.co.uk/pet-insurance/pet-care-and-advice/summer-tips-for-pets.html

Petplan’s expert vet, Dr Brian Faulkner, shares “With the warmer weather, pets will be spending more time outdoors. However, this will increase their chances of coming into contact with insects such as bees. According to Petplan’s 2025 claims data, Petplan recorded £25,512 in claims for insect stings for cats and £129,308 in claims for dogs.

“For many cats and dogs, there is a natural instinct to explore small fast-moving insects, but this can increase their chances of being stung. Cats and dogs are very good at hiding symptoms of pain, so if you weren’t around when your pet got stung, it may not be immediately obvious.

“Look out for your pet suddenly pawing, licking or nibbling at a particular part of their body, yowling or vocalising more than usual, or showing signs of localised swelling or reddening.

“Stings to the mouth and throat, (including if your pet was stung after swallowing a bee), are potentially the most dangerous because any swelling to the upper respiratory tract can make it more difficult for your pet to breathe, while multiple stings anywhere on your pet’s body could lead to an anaphylactic reaction which in rare cases can be life-threatening. Like humans, some cats and dogs can be allergic to stings. If this is the case, you may notice swelling, distress and breathing difficulties in your pet, and you should see a vet immediately.

“Making sure you have pet insurance – and taking your pet to the vet promptly – will help ensure you’re covered in the event of any unexpected, urgent health problems”.