Scorpions are common in Gilbert, even though you might not notice them very often. Pets, however, are another story. They’re much more likely to encounter scorpions, and they’re also more vulnerable to a scorpion’s poisonous sting. Just in case your cat or dog tangles with a scorpion, you need to know the warning signs so you can get them to the vet in time.
Are Scorpions Harmful to Pets?
Yes, your pet could be in serious danger if they get stung by a scorpion. A scorpion’s tail is primed for piercing through their victim’s skin to inject its venom.
Cats and dogs’ smaller bodies can’t handle a scorpion’s venom as well as larger animals. While scorpion stings are not typically fatal to pets as long as you get them quick treatment, it’s wise to always treat incidents like these as emergencies.
Scorpions in Gilbert: Their Habits and Hiding Places
The warm, dry climate you enjoy in Gilbert are the same qualities scorpions thrive in. They are present year-round, and summer is when they are most active.
The most common kind of scorpion you’ll see in Gilbert is the small Arizona Bark Scorpion. This scorpion is also the most venomous in North America, so awareness of the threat is vital if you have pets. It’s pretty small–less than three inches long– and it’s light brown, so it often blends into natural surroundings easily.
Scorpions are nocturnal, which makes it more likely your pet will encounter one at night, when it’s already dark and visibility is limited, so you might not see the scorpion in time to re-direct your pet’s attention.
During the day, scorpions tend to hide in cool places that are protected from the sun, such as inside sheds and under rocks, wood piles, or debris along walls—all places that might tempt a cat or dog to sniff and explore. But it doesn’t matter whether your pets go outdoors or not. Scorpions can easily slip into your house or garage and surprise one of your pets.
Pro Tip: Scorpions glow under black light.
If you go for walks with your dog after dark, make sure they’re securely leashed, and carry a black light flashlight with you. It can help you spot scorpions more easily so you can divert your dog’s attention.
How to Keep Your Pet Safe from Scorpions
Although it’s not possible to fully eliminate the risk for pets, given how common scorpions are in Gilbert, there are things you can do today that make your pet less likely to get stung.
- Inspect your home’s exterior carefully, making sure cracks in doors, windows, and walls are sealed.
- Get rid of any debris around your home where scorpions could hide, including wood piles and large rocks.
- Consider strengthening your pest-control measures around the house to reduce the scorpion population.
- Keep your cats indoors at night.
- Watch dogs closely while outside at night.
- Stop pets from sniffing around places where scorpions could hide, including crawl spaces, retaining walls, and even fences.
What Are the Symptoms of Scorpion Stings?
No matter how careful you are, you probably won’t see your pet get stung. However, you will notice the symptoms of a scorpion sting pretty quickly, as soon as 10-15 minutes afterward.
Watch out for signs like:
- Sudden pawing at the mouth or nose (the venom can cause pain or numbness)
- New and noticeable limping
- Drooling
- Coughing
- Whimpering or unusual crying
- Muscle tremors or weakness
- Breathing difficulties
Urgent Care for Pets in Gilbert
If you think your pet got stung by a scorpion, don’t wait to see if symptoms improve, wondering if the cause could be something else. Schedule an urgent vet visit at Anasazi Animal Clinic or the nearest emergency vet. Prompt evaluation and expert care can protect your pet from the risk of long-term or life-threatening harm.
Photo by Alex Harwood on Unsplash used with permission under license for commercial use 06/02/2026.