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Insect sting

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

Bee on the nose of a dog

Insect sting
An insect sting is a local tissue reaction after the injection of venom or saliva, usually by a bee, wasp, or hornet. Typical symptoms are swelling, pain, and itching, sometimes also stronger allergic reactions. Stings in the mouth or throat area can lead to shortness of breath due to swelling.

Insect stings are a common problem in our pets, which in most cases are harmless, but can become life-threatening in certain situations. An insect sting is defined as the penetrationPenetration describes the entry or permeation of a substance or organism into a body or material. In medicine, it can refer to the penetration of microorganisms into tissues or the insertion of instruments into the body. of a stinger or mouthparts of an insect into the animal’s skin, often injecting toxins or irritating substances. In dogs and cats, stings from bees, wasps, hornets, and bumblebees, as well as bites from ants, mosquitoes, and horseflies, are particularly relevant. The reaction of the animal organism to these stings varies greatly and depends on various factors: the type of insect, the amount of venom injected, the location of the sting, and the individual sensitivity of the animal. While most stings only cause local reactions, some animals can develop allergic reactions that, in the worst case, can lead to anaphylactic shockAnaphylactic shock is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction caused by a massive release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, drop in blood pressure, tachycardia, and loss of consciousness.. Stings in the area of the respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. are particularly dangerous, as swelling can lead to life-threatening complications here.

Causes

Insect stings from bees, wasps, hornets, or ant bites, etc., in the area of the skin are usually harmless and do not require treatment (Fig.).
The symptoms that occur, such as itching and swelling, subside on their own.
In rare cases, an allergic reaction can occur (see – > anaphylaxisAnaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that is potentially life-threatening. It can be triggered by various factors, including food, medications, and insect stings, and requires immediate medical attention.) and have dramatic consequences.
A sting in the throat area can also require treatment due to the resulting swelling.

Supplement

The causes of insect stings in pets are varied and depend heavily on the animals’ behavior and the environmental conditions. Insect stings are particularly common in the warm season when insects are more active. The different types of insects cause different reactions:

Bee stings are characterized by leaving the stinger behind with an attached venom sac. The venom contains enzymesEnzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate specific chemical reactions in the body without being consumed. They play a crucial role in virtually all physiological processes., peptides, and biogenic amines that cause pain and inflammatory reactions. Bees usually only sting in defense.

Wasp stings can occur multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. times because wasps do not lose their stinger. Their venom contains similar components to bee venom, but in a different composition. Wasps are particularly attracted to sweets and meat and can react more aggressively than bees.

Hornet stings contain a higher concentration of venom and can therefore cause stronger reactions. However, hornets are less aggressive than often thought and usually only sting when directly threatened.

Mosquito bites lead to local reactions through saliva release and can, in rare cases, transmit pathogens. Mosquitoes are particularly active near water and at dusk.

Tick bites are a special case because they adhere for longer and can transmit various pathogens such as Borrelia or Anaplasma in addition to local reactions.

The curious behavior of many dogs and cats, especially sniffing and chasing insects, significantly increases the risk of stings in the face and mouth area.

Symptoms

Insect sting in dogs and cats

Typical Symptoms:

Local swelling, redness, pain, itching
Licking/Scratching, Wheal formation
If stung in the mouth: increased salivation

Alarm signs:

Swelling on head/neck/throat area, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. sounds, RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress
Vomiting, DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.,
Weakness, increased heart rate, collapse (anaphylaxisAnaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that is potentially life-threatening. It can be triggered by various factors, including food, medications, and insect stings, and requires immediate medical attention.)
MultipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. stings (e.g. swarm) + fatigue/increased temperature

Escalation/course:

Minutes–1 h: ProgressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. to anaphylaxisAnaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that is potentially life-threatening. It can be triggered by various factors, including food, medications, and insect stings, and requires immediate medical attention. possible
6–24 h: Increasing swelling/pain, secondary infectionA secondary infection occurs when an already weakened individual suffers an additional infection, often because the immune system is impaired by the primary infection. possible
Sting in the mouth/throat → Swelling can escalate with delay

The symptoms after an insect sting vary depending on the type of insect, the location of the sting, and the individual reaction of the animal. Stings in the respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. and mouth require significantly more care.
Typical local reactions include redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness at the injection site. These symptoms usually develop within a few minutes after the sting and can last for a few hours to days. Affected animals often lick or scratch at the sting site, which can lead to secondary infections.

Stings in the head and neck area are particularly dangerous. Swelling can quickly lead to respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress here. Stings in the mouth or throat area can lead to life-threatening swelling that blocks the airways. Symptoms such as drooling, gagging, coughing, or shortness of breath are warning signs and require immediate veterinary assistance.

In the case of allergic reactions, systemic symptoms can occur that affect the whole body. These typically develop within 20 minutes after the sting and include:

Large-scale swelling that extends beyond the sting site
Urticaria (hives) with wheal formation
Vomiting and diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.
Restlessness or lethargy
Increased heart rate and respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. rate
Pale mucous membranes
Collapse or unconsciousness

An anaphylactic shockAnaphylactic shock is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction caused by a massive release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, drop in blood pressure, tachycardia, and loss of consciousness. is the most severe form of allergic reaction and can be fatal without rapid treatment. Animals with a known insect venom allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. have an increased risk of severe reactions to repeated stings.

First Aid

Removing the stinger and light cooling of the affected skin area are usually sufficient.
Observe your animal a little in the next 30 minutes.
Prevent your animal from scratching intensely, which can lead to a wound and subsequent infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

When should you see a vet sooner?

→ Red flag if facial Swelling, Vomiting, difficulty breathing, weakness, or collapse (anaphylaxisAnaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that is potentially life-threatening. It can be triggered by various factors, including food, medications, and insect stings, and requires immediate medical attention.).

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of an insect sting is primarily based on the clinical examination and the medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits.. Pet owners often report an observed contact of their animal with insects or notice typical behavioral changes such as sudden howling, yelping, or hectic licking of a certain part of the body. During the clinical examination, the veterinarian looks for characteristic signs such as local swelling, redness, or a visible stinger.

In the case of bee stings, the remaining stinger with the attached venom sac can often be identified. This should be carefully removed, ideally by pushing it off sideways with a credit card or a similar flat object, to avoid further squeezing of the venom sac.

The differential diagnosisDifferential diagnosis is the process of weighing two or more conditions that cause similar symptoms to determine the specific cause of a patient's symptoms. includes other causes of acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. swelling and allergic reactions such as contact allergies, foreign bodies, bite injuries, or reactions to medications. In unclear cases or in the case of severe systemic reactions, further diagnostic measures may be necessary:

Blood tests to assess inflammation parameters
AllergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. diagnostics using serological tests (IgE determination)
In case of suspected secondary infections: bacteriological examinations
In case of shortness of breath: X-rays of the thorax / chestThe thorax / chest is the upper part of the trunk, surrounded by the ribs, sternum, and spine. It protects vital organs such as the heart and lungs. to assess the airways

In animals with recurrentRecurrent refers to a disease that repeatedly returns or worsens after a temporary remission or improvement. allergic reactions, an allergological evaluation may be useful to detect specific sensitizations and, if necessary, to initiate desensitizationDesensitization is a treatment procedure that aims to reduce an animal's sensitivity to an allergen. This is done through gradual exposure to the allergen in controlled doses to build tolerance. therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions..

Further veterinary measures

Further measures include removing the bee stinger with the venom reservoir, if this has not already happened.
If the stings with the subsequent swelling are found in regions where they can hinder breathing, agents against swelling should be given.
The veterinarian is familiar with the classification of the severity of an allergic (anaphylactic) reaction and will initiate appropriate measures accordingly (→ Allergic reaction (anaphylaxisAnaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that is potentially life-threatening. It can be triggered by various factors, including food, medications, and insect stings, and requires immediate medical attention.)).

Supplement

The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. for insect stings depends on the severity of the symptoms and ranges from simple first aid measures to intensive care. In the case of uncomplicated local reactions, specific treatment is often not necessary. The following therapeutic measures are used depending on the severity:

In the case of bee stings, the stinger should first be carefully removed, ideally by pushing it off sideways to avoid further squeezing of the venom sac. The sting site can then be cooled to reduce swelling and pain. Cool compresses should be applied for 10–15 minutes and repeated if necessary.

In the case of moderate local reactions, antihistaminesAntihistamines are medications that block the effects of histamine in the body, thereby alleviating allergic reactions. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Itching, Skin inflammation, and other allergy symptoms. can be used to reduce itching and swelling. Commonly used active ingredients are diphenhydramine, cetirizine, or chlorpheniramine in a veterinarian-adjusted dosage. However, these should only be administered after consulting with the veterinarian.

In the case of stronger inflammatory reactions, corticosteroidsCorticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that occur naturally in the body and can also be produced synthetically. They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions. such as prednisolone or dexamethasone can be used. These have a strong anti-inflammatory effect and can be life-saving in the case of allergic reactions. The dosage and duration of use are determined individually by the veterinarian.

Emergency therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is required for severe allergic reactions or anaphylactic shockAnaphylactic shock is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction caused by a massive release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, drop in blood pressure, tachycardia, and loss of consciousness.:

EpinephrineEpinephrine, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and neurotransmitter released by the body in stressful situations. It increases heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels, preparing the body for a "fight-or-flight" response. (Adrenalin) to stabilize the circulation and reduce bronchial constriction
Intravenous fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. for circulatory stabilization
High-dose corticosteroidsCorticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that occur naturally in the body and can also be produced synthetically. They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions.
Oxygen administration for respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress
Intubation and ventilation in the case of severe airway obstructionobstruction refers to the blockage or narrowing of a hollow organ or canal, which hinders the normal flow of liquids or gases. In dogs and cats, an obstruction can occur in the digestive tract, airways, or urinary tract and often requires immediate medical treatment.

In the case of stings in the mouth or throat area with swelling that can impair the airways, immediate veterinary treatment is essential. In some cases, a temporary tracheotomyA tracheotomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the trachea to establish an alternative airway. This may be necessary in dogs and cats to bypass airway obstructions. may be necessary to ensure breathing.

In the case of secondary infections of the sting site, antibiotic therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. may be necessary. The choice of antibiotic is ideally made after an antibiogram.

Prognosis and aftercare

The prognosis for insect stings is excellent in most cases. Local reactions usually subside within 24–48 hours without permanent damage. No special aftercare is required for uncomplicated stings, except for observing the sting site for signs of a secondary infectionA secondary infection occurs when an already weakened individual suffers an additional infection, often because the immune system is impaired by the primary infection..

In animals that have shown an allergic reaction, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the severity of the reaction and the speed of treatment. An anaphylactic shockAnaphylactic shock is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction caused by a massive release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, drop in blood pressure, tachycardia, and loss of consciousness. treated in time has a good prognosis, while delayed treatment can lead to permanent organ damage or death. Animals with a known insect venom allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. should be monitored particularly closely, and pet owners should pay attention to potential insect contacts.

Aftercare for severe reactions includes close monitoring of the animal for signs of renewed deterioration. After anaphylaxisAnaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that is potentially life-threatening. It can be triggered by various factors, including food, medications, and insect stings, and requires immediate medical attention., the animal is often monitored in the hospital for 24–48 hours, as biphasic reactions can occur in which symptoms reappear after an apparent improvement.

For animals with a known insect venom allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock., the veterinarian can prescribe an emergency kit with antihistaminesAntihistamines are medications that block the effects of histamine in the body, thereby alleviating allergic reactions. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Itching, Skin inflammation, and other allergy symptoms. and, if necessary, an epinephrineEpinephrine, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and neurotransmitter released by the body in stressful situations. It increases heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels, preparing the body for a "fight-or-flight" response. auto-injector and train the owner in its use. In addition, desensitizationDesensitization is a treatment procedure that aims to reduce an animal's sensitivity to an allergen. This is done through gradual exposure to the allergen in controlled doses to build tolerance. therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. (specific immunotherapy) can be considered to reduce the allergic reaction in the long term.

For the future, it is important to take preventive measures to avoid further stings. These include avoiding areas with high insect activity, especially in the summer months, and using animal-friendly insect repellents after consulting with the veterinarian.

Summary

Insect stings in dogs and cats are common occurrences that in most cases are associated with mild local reactions and do not require specific treatment. The symptomatologySymptomatology refers to the entirety of symptoms associated with a particular disease or condition. It describes how a disease manifests itself externally. ranges from local swelling and redness to life-threatening allergic reactions. Stings in the area of the respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. are particularly dangerous, as swelling can lead to respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress.

First aid measures include carefully removing bee stingers, cooling the sting site, and observing the animal for signs of an allergic reaction. In the case of severe reactions, immediate veterinary treatment is essential, which may include antihistaminesAntihistamines are medications that block the effects of histamine in the body, thereby alleviating allergic reactions. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Itching, Skin inflammation, and other allergy symptoms., corticosteroidsCorticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones that occur naturally in the body and can also be produced synthetically. They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties and are used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of conditions., and epinephrineEpinephrine, also known as epinephrine, is a hormone and neurotransmitter released by the body in stressful situations. It increases heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels, preparing the body for a "fight-or-flight" response. in the case of anaphylactic shockAnaphylactic shock is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction caused by a massive release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, drop in blood pressure, tachycardia, and loss of consciousness..

The prognosis is good with timely treatment, but animals with a known insect venom allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. should be particularly protected. Preventive measures such as avoiding areas with high insect activity and using suitable repellents can reduce the risk of future stings.

Pet owners should know the symptoms of an allergic reaction and know when veterinary help is needed. With the right knowledge and quick action, even serious reactions to insect stings can be treated successfully.

Outlook on current research

Research in the field of insect venom allergies in pets is constantly evolving. Current studies focus on improved diagnostic methods that enable a more precise identification of the triggering insect venoms. Molecular allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. tests, which can detect specific components of insect venoms, are also increasingly being used in veterinary medicine and allow a more accurate differentiation between cross-reactions and true sensitizations.

In the field of therapy, new protocols for desensitizationDesensitization is a treatment procedure that aims to reduce an animal's sensitivity to an allergen. This is done through gradual exposure to the allergen in controlled doses to build tolerance. (specific immunotherapy) are being researched, which should enable a more effective and faster hyposensitization. These could improve the treatment options for animals with severe insect venom allergies in the future.

Innovative emergency medications with a prolonged duration of action and improved stability are being developed to optimize the initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. care of allergic reactions. Furthermore, researchers are working on more animal-friendly formulations of antihistaminesAntihistamines are medications that block the effects of histamine in the body, thereby alleviating allergic reactions. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Itching, Skin inflammation, and other allergy symptoms. and corticosteroids with a reduced side effectA side effect is an unwanted reaction to a medication or treatment. In animals, side effects can range from mild and temporary to severe and potentially life-threatening. profile.

Another research focus is on developing more effective and environmentally friendly insect repellents for pets. Natural active ingredients are being investigated for their effectiveness and tolerability in order to find chemical alternatives with a lower environmental impact.

Climate change is leading to altered distribution areas for various insect species, which poses new challenges for veterinary medicine. Studies on the spread of new insect species and their potential impact on the health of pets are becoming increasingly important.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How do I know if my animal has been stung by a bee or wasp?
In the case of bee stings, the stinger with the venom sac often remains stuck in the skin, while wasps keep their stinger and can sting multipleMultiple means manifold or repeated and is used to describe conditions or events that occur in multiple instances or at different locations. In veterinary medicine, this may indicate multiple lesions, tumors, or other pathological changes. times. Bee stings are often more painful, while wasp stings tend to burn more.
Can I give my animal human antihistaminesAntihistamines are medications that block the effects of histamine in the body, thereby alleviating allergic reactions. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Itching, Skin inflammation, and other allergy symptoms.?
Some antihistaminesAntihistamines are medications that block the effects of histamine in the body, thereby alleviating allergic reactions. They are used in dogs and cats to treat Itching, Skin inflammation, and other allergy symptoms. approved for humans can also be used in animals, but only after consulting with the veterinarian and in the correct, species-specific dosage. Some human preparations contain additives that can be toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. to animals.
How do I remove a bee stinger correctly?
The stinger should be carefully scraped off sideways with a credit card or a similar flat object. Pulling it out with your fingers or tweezers can lead to squeezing of the venom sac and should be avoided.
When do I need to take my animal to the vet if it has been stung?
Immediate veterinary assistance is required for stings in the mouth or throat area, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. distress, severe swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, collapse, or known insect venom allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock..
Can my animal develop an allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. to insect stings?
Yes, dogs and cats can develop allergies to insect venoms. An allergic reaction can occur with the first sting or only after several stings and can become more severe with each further contact.
How can I protect my animal from insect stings?
Avoid walks in areas with high insect activity, especially in the morning and evening hours. Keep your distance from flowers, garbage cans, and fallen fruit. After consulting with the veterinarian, special repellents for animals can be used.
Can insect stings leave scars on my animal?
In most cases, insect stings heal without scar tissue formation. However, severe scratching or licking can lead to secondary infections that can lead to scar tissue formation.
Is a hornet sting more dangerous for my animal than a bee sting?
Hornet venom contains a higher concentration of toxins, which can lead to stronger local reactions. However, the danger mainly depends on the individual sensitivity of the animal.
How long does it take for the swelling to subside after an insect sting?
In the case of uncomplicated stings, the swelling largely subsides within 24–48 hours. It may take longer for larger swellings or allergic reactions.
Can my animal die from a single insect sting?
A single insect sting can be fatal in the case of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic shockAnaphylactic shock is a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction caused by a massive release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, drop in blood pressure, tachycardia, and loss of consciousness.) if no timely treatment is given. In non-allergic animals, individual stings are usually not life-threatening, unless they occur in the area of the respiratory tractThe respiratory tract includes the organs and structures involved in the breathing process, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. and lead to its obstructionobstruction refers to the blockage or narrowing of a hollow organ or canal, which hinders the normal flow of liquids or gases. In dogs and cats, an obstruction can occur in the digestive tract, airways, or urinary tract and often requires immediate medical treatment..

Literature

Kohn, B. u. G. Schwarz: Praktikum der Hundeklinik, Enke, 12th edition, Stuttgart 2017
Sigrist, N. (ed.): Emergency Medicine for Dogs and Cats; Immediate Measures and Safe Processing. Stuttgart, Enke Verlag 2017.
Löwe, G. and Löwe, O. (2021). Emergencies in dogs and cats – A veterinary Guide. Kynos-Verlag. 208 pp.
Mueller RS, Jensen-Jarolim E, Roth-Walter F, Marti E, Janda J, Seida AA, DeBoer D. Allergen immunotherapy in people and dogs with allergies: a comparative review. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice. 2018;6(4):1363-1376.
Saridomichelakis MN, Olivry T. An update on the treatment of canine atopic dermatitis. The Veterinary Journal. 2016;207:29-37.
Rudloff E, Kirby R. Anaphylaxis and angioedema. In: Silverstein DC, Hopper K, editors. Small Animal Critical Care Medicine. 2nd ed. St. Louis: Elsevier; 2020. p. 807-812.