Dogs, and especially cats, can be tempted to eat bugs, which might seem a harmless habit for the most part, but can also be a buggy problem for a few reasons. We recommend that you deter your pet from eating bugs for the following reasons:

STINGS & BITES

Bee, wasp and hornet stings are most commonly seen on the face or in the mouths of dogs and cats. This is dangerous because allergic reactions are very common in our pets, causing severe swelling and sometimes anaphylactic shock. In this case seeking emergency treatment at your nearest vet or emergency centre is vital.

Bugs like spiders can also be venomous, but are not always easy for our pets to spot as they tend to hide away. However, if you notice any strange lumps on your pet seek veterinary advice.

TOXICITY

Caterpillars, ladybugs and stinkbugs are the most common toxic bugs. Generally, a more bug with brighter colours is warning predators that they don’t taste nice and tend to be more toxic. For our dogs and cats who don’t always grasp this concept most bugs will cause a tummy upset, gastro-intestinal inflammation or oral lesions

PARASITES

If the thought of your dog or cat eating bugs is bad enough, then it may surprise you to know that they can actually become infected by parasites such as Tapeworm (by ingesting a flea carrying the parasite) or Physaloptera (a stomach worm by ingesting cockroaches, grubs, beetles, crickets or other faeces-eating bugs). Tapeworm segments can be seen in the stool or around the anus and appear like white grains of rice. Physaloptera is most commonly found in dogs or cats with acute vomiting.

INSECTICIDES

Bug poisons such as snail bait, fly spray and cockroach spray are just a few of the common insecticides that may have been ingested by that bug your dog or cat is showing interest in. These common household insecticides are poisonous to our pets as well so prevention is key by making sure your pet is kept from having their next snack.

If your pet is showing signs of illness or discomfort then it is important to bring them to Pet Doctors Palm Beach for a quick check up. If you are concerned that it is bug-related then we will be able to more effectively treat the symptoms.