Scorpions are found in many parts of Texas, including wooded areas.
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Scorpions are common in Texas and many parts of the southwestern United States, putting both people and pets at risk of stings in these areas. Most scorpion stings are not dangerous to dogs or cats, but in rare cases, serious stings can occur, so it’s important for owners to always use caution.
Dr. Lance Wheeler, clinical assistant professor at Texas A&M College of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, explains how pet owners can recognize a bite, what to do if one has been bitten, and how to prevent future incidents. Let me explain.
find the signs
Sudden lameness, lameness Swelling Cough Scorpions are known to be present in this area
It can be difficult to recognize that your pet has been stung by a scorpion.
“Symptoms can vary widely,” Wheeler explained. “Depending on the species, scorpions have different venoms and cause different symptoms in those affected.”
As if that weren’t enough, scorpions fluoresce under ultraviolet light.
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In most cases, scorpion stings cause pets to feel pain or discomfort in their legs, which may cause them to suddenly limp, raise their legs, or move slowly. Wheeler explains that many pets don’t actually feel pain from the sting, but instead experience a sensation of their limbs falling asleep, which causes them to limp.
Afterwards, Wheeler said, based on personal experience with scorpion stings, it’s common for pets to start coughing.
“If I see lameness or sudden swelling or a known scorpion in the area, I would be suspicious and take him to the vet,” Wheeler said.
While a scorpion sting on a pet may seem alarming, Wheeler emphasizes that severe reactions are rare, especially in areas where less venomous species are prevalent.
“In Texas, scorpions can be seen year-round, with peak sightings occurring during the hottest and driest months, typically July and August,” Wheeler said. “However, in over four years of working in the small animal ER, I have never seen a dog or cat ingest dangerous or life-threatening scorpion venom.”
Still, recognizing the signs of a bite and seeking timely veterinary attention can make a big difference in ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort.
what’s next
If you think your pet has been stung by a scorpion, acting quickly can help keep your pet comfortable and avoid potential complications.
“If you suspect your pet has been stung, it’s best to bring them in right away,” Wheeler advises. “Most scorpions are benign, so stings may not require treatment, but it is important to differentiate through physical examination.”
In some cases, your veterinarian may prescribe medication to make your animal more comfortable. In rare cases, more venomous stings can cause serious problems such as skin and tissue damage, requiring additional veterinary care to manage symptoms.
“Pets that are in additional pain may be treated with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug specifically for dogs or cats, or a neuropathic analgesic to reduce any pain or discomfort the animal may be experiencing. We’ll prescribe a few days worth of either,”’ Wheeler said.
protect your pet from scorpions
The best way to protect your pet from scorpions is to prevent them from getting stung in the first place. Taking precautions not only protects your pet, but also reduces the chance that your human family members will be bitten.
“If you live in an area with high scorpion infestations, you may want to consider pest control options,” Wheeler recommends. “Many pest control companies offer services targeting scorpions, which can help reduce the risk to both pets and humans.”
Another effective way to prevent scorpion stings from occurring is to use a black light to locate and safely remove scorpions.
“Scorpions are nocturnal, hiding during the day and becoming active at night,” Wheeler said. “Ultraviolet light causes scorpions to fluoresce, which helps us find them in the environment.”
After all, while a scorpion sting may seem scary, most encounters turn out to be harmless. With a little care and precaution, your pet can stay safe from scorpions.
