Scorpion sting in dogs and cats
The signs of a sting, what to do on the way to the vet and how to prevent it at home. This guide doesn't replace a vet: if you think it was stung, call one.
Reviewed by Paola De Valeri, veterinarian, October 17, 2026.
How dangerous it is
Mexico has more than 200 scorpion species and only a few are dangerous, but they're hard to tell apart. Most cases are in Durango, Morelos, Guerrero, Jalisco, Guanajuato, Michoacán and Nayarit, especially in the hot and rainy season.
Dogs are usually stung on the snout or paws, because they sniff or step on the scorpion. The risk is higher for small dogs, puppies, cats and older or sick pets.
Signs of a sting
- It suddenly cries or yelps, limps or paws at its snout.
- Pain, swelling or redness in a small area.
- Heavy drooling, sneezing or rubbing its face.
- Restlessness, tremors or moving without coordination.
It's an emergency if…
- It struggles to breathe or breathes very fast.
- It vomits, has muscle spasms or seizures.
- Its eyes move strangely or it can't stand up.
- It's a small dog, a puppy or a cat, even if it doesn't have strong symptoms yet.
Call the clinic before you leave so they expect you.
What to do on the way to the vet
- 1. Keep it still and calm. Carry it if it's small. Moving a lot doesn't help, and pain can make it bite, even you.
- 2. Wash the area and apply cold. Water and mild soap, and a cold cloth or ice wrapped in fabric for a few minutes. Don't cut, suck or apply garlic, lime or other remedies.
- 3. Don't give it human medicine. Painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can poison it. The vet decides the treatment.
- 4. If you can, bring the scorpion. In a closed jar or as a photo. It helps identify the species.
How to prevent stings at home
- Seal cracks in walls, floors and door frames; add screens and door sweeps.
- Don't leave kibble or water on the floor at night, and check its bed and toys.
- Clear rubble, firewood and piled-up pots from the yard.
- At night, take it out to the yard with a light on: scorpions come out in the dark.
Frequently asked questions
- What do I do if a scorpion stung my dog?
- Keep it still, wash the area with soap and water, apply cold wrapped in fabric and take it to the vet. Don't give it human medicine or home remedies.
- Can a dog die from a scorpion sting?
- It's uncommon, but it can happen with dangerous species, especially in small dogs, puppies and cats. That's why a vet should check it even if it looks fine.
- What does a scorpion sting look like on a dog?
- You'll rarely see a clear mark. What you'll notice is pain, swelling or redness in a small area, and that it touches or licks that spot.
- Are there home remedies for a scorpion sting in dogs?
- No. Garlic, lime or creams don't neutralize the venom and can delay care. Wash, apply cold and go to the vet.
Related guides
- My dog bit a toad: what to doWhat to do if your dog bit or licked a toad, and the signs of poisoning that can't wait.
- How to tell if your dog is sickSigns of fever, dehydration, poisoning and parvo in dogs, and when to go to the emergency vet.
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Sources
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