What happens if my cat eats or is bitten by a white tail spider?

This is not a black widow nor a brown widow, nor a hobo nor yellow sack spider which would be the dangerous spiders in Oregon.. So, while it is likely your kitty was bitten, it is unlikely that there is lasting damage. The poison of this spider likely did hurt or irritate your cat, but she should be fine since the licking and pawing stopped.

Chandler can definitely have a reaction if the spider bites him. Not all cats will have a reaction but some will. I would recommend talking with an exterminator to make sure you can try to get rid of the spiders. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

The main insect to be concerned about would be a venomous spider like a black widow or brown recluse. Bites from these spiders can cause large wounds and tissue necrosis and can be very complicated to treat. Other insect bites will be a nuisance but should not cause any major problems. Additionally, if your cat eats the bugs, the only symptoms you may see are those related to GI upset. These symptoms would include drooling excessively, inappetance, vomiting and/or diarrhea. Or you may not notice any symptoms at all. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck!

Yes a spider bite can cause a swelling. the swelling does not look very extensive so likely was not caused by one of the "nasty" spiders such as a black widow or a brown recluse. If your kitty, however, starts getting abdominal pain (rigid belly) or the swelling starts to change color, then a visit at the emergency room is the next step. If Maisey eats, drinks, lets you touch the swelling and otherwise does not act ill, then I think you have nothing to worry about and the swelling should go away within a day or so.

Huntsman spider aren't present in the US, so I would definitely check with your local veterinarian to see what their experience is with them and cats, however it appears that the bite is painful but doesn't cause lasting effects for humans. I image it could cause some distress for your young kitten, but am not sure if it would be truly dangerous.

Oh no, poor Sylar! If he's not pawing at his mouth or foaming anymore, I would keep an eye on him. It could be the pain from the spider caused that reaction. I would try to look up the spider on the internet to see if it is poisonous or not, and if it is, rush him into an ER vet now. While monitor him, if you see any swelling of the mouth, vomiting, foaming of the mouth, respiratory difficulties, or the bite in his mouth gets bigger, I would have him seen by a vet right away.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This may still be normal after a spider bite. However, something like an abscess or a growth cannot be ruled out just by looking at it. I would recommend you continue the course. However, if this gets worse such as getting larger, I recommend you consider having it sampled to make sure he is not developing anything else. Best of luck!