The effects of a bite or sting vary, depending on whether the animal is venomous, whether it transmits disease, and the amount of tissue damage. A minor, nonvenomous bite or sting typically causes only temporary pain and swelling.
However, medical attention should be sought if symptoms are severe, do not subside, other symptoms develop, or the animal may carry a disease such as malaria or rabies (a viral infection that affects the nervous system).
Some people have a life-threatening allergic reaction (called anaphylaxis), which requires urgent medical help. A venomous bite or sting should always receive medical treatment, as should any deep or large animal bite.