Bees are becoming more active as the weather warms up and flowers open in abundance. Our pets may encounter bees when out for a walk, in the garden or when the bees are seeking water, particularly on very hot days, as bees often use your dog or cat’s water bowl for a drink.

To reduce the risk of encounter, consider creating a water source, especially for bees that are out of reach of your pets. Colourful marbles in a bowl or saucer can attract a bee. Water that contains a smell (wet earth, moss, aquatic plants, worms, decomposition, or even chlorine) has a better chance of attracting a bee than sparkling clean water straight from the tap. Smelly or slimy water will also contain some nutrients the bees can use.

Each animal responds differently to a sting. Like people, some just experience pain and local swelling, while others can experience life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. If your pet experiences a sting for the first time, monitor them closely and call the team at Bicton Veterinary Clinic for advice on what you can do.

If they experience a severe reaction, often evidenced by sudden vomiting with or without diarrhoea, shaking, difficulty breathing or collapse, seek veterinary attention without delay. If you notice swelling or hives, this is still a serious reaction, and you should contact the team at Bicton Veterinary Clinic.