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Contact with pine processionary caterpillars

The pine processionary caterpillar has stinging hairs containing a very aggressive toxin. Contact, especially with the tongue, causes a severe reaction that can lead to loss of tissue. It is a typical emergency in the UK's pine areas during winter and spring.

Veterinary emergency🐕 Dogs🐈 Cats

This may be a veterinary emergency

ABSOLUTE EMERGENCY: if your pet suddenly drools and has a swollen tongue after walking near pine trees, rinse the mouth with water and go to the vet IMMEDIATELY.

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Sudden, profuse drooling
  • • Swollen tongue, sometimes with areas that turn dark (necrosis)
  • • The animal rubs its muzzle with its paws
  • • Intense pain in the mouth
  • • Swelling of the face and lips
  • • Vomiting, listlessness
  • • In severe cases: breathing difficulty

Causes

Contact with the stinging hairs of the pine processionary caterpillar. The caterpillars come down from pine trees in a line (procession) between late winter and spring. Dogs touch or lick them out of curiosity.

Diagnosis

The clinical signs are very characteristic during the processionary season. The vet assesses the extent of the damage to the tongue and mouth.

Treatment

EMERGENCY: rinse the mouth with plenty of water WITHOUT rubbing (rubbing breaks more hairs and makes it worse), and go to the vet immediately. Treatment of the pain, the inflammation and the damaged tissue. Part of the tongue may be lost.

Prevention

During the processionary season (late winter to spring), avoid areas with pine trees, keep an eye on your dog and do not let it sniff the ground beneath pines. The caterpillars in a line are very recognisable.

When should you see the vet?

ABSOLUTE EMERGENCY: if your pet suddenly drools and has a swollen tongue after walking near pine trees, rinse the mouth with water and go to the vet IMMEDIATELY.

Consult a vet24 h emergency vets nearby

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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