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Are Caterpillars Dangerous To Dogs
It’s not every day you see a tiny piece of fluff walking in front of you. And this is exactly the reason why so many dogs and cats can’t resist a sniff and lick…of a caterpillar. But the big question is, what happens next?
ln general most caterpillars are not dangerous to dogs. However, some caterpillars can pose a risk to dogs if they are touched or ingested. There are a few caterpillar species that have venomous spines or hairs that can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or even more severe symptoms when in contact with a dog's skin or if a dog ingests them. Some of these caterpillar species include:
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Puss Caterpillar (Megalopyge opercularis): Also known as the "asp caterpillar" or "tree asp," this caterpillar has venomous spines that can cause intense pain, swelling, and other symptoms when touched.
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Gypsy Moth Caterpillar (Lymantria Morasa modesta): While the caterpillar itself is not venomous, its hairs can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals, including dogs.
The Lasciocampidae are a family of Moths known as eggars, snout or lappet moths. When your skin brushes against these caterpillars, the spines break off, releasing an irritating fluid that produces an immediate stinging and burning reaction, resulting in numbness and swelling.
Photo By Jon Richfield (Streblote sp)
Io Moth Caterpillar (Automeris io): The caterpillar of the Io moth has venomous spines that can cause localized pain, swelling, and redness if touched.
Photo by Alan Rockefeller (Automeris sp)
Outsmarting predators
The woolly bear’s stiff hairs are an important defense against predators such as yellow jackets and other wasps. By curling into a ball, caterpillars position their bristles on the outside and protect vulnerable organs.
Photo By Jon Richfield
Caterpillars that irritation with their fine hairs account for the majority of the caterpillar reactions seen in pets.
What do you do?
If you suspect that your dog has come into contact with a caterpillar and is experiencing symptoms such as excessive drooling, swelling, skin irritation, or any other unusual behavior, it's essential to seek veterinary attention promptly. While most caterpillar encounters are harmless, it's better to be cautious and get professional advice to ensure your dog's well-being. As a preventive measure, try to avoid letting your dog come into contact with caterpillars or any other insects in the wild, especially if you are unsure about their potential risks.
The Key is Prevention
Use a stick or leaf to move caterpillars [especially the hairy ones] away from pets.
The key warning signs of caterpillar ingestion:
- Lots of lip licking
- Excess salivation
- Gagging or coughing
- Pawing at the mouth
- Tongue swelling
- Difficulty breathing (in extreme cases)
