Grass seeds may look harmless, but during the warmer months they can cause surprisingly serious problems for our pets – particularly dogs that love exploring long grass and countryside walks.
Their small size and pointed shape mean grass seeds can easily attach themselves to an animal’s coat before becoming lodged in places such as the paws, ears and eyes. They can also penetrate the skin and begin to work their way deeper into the surrounding tissue.
Once embedded, a grass seed can quickly cause irritation, pain, inflammation and infection, which is why it’s important to know what to look out for.
Where do grass seeds get stuck?
Grass seeds can potentially become lodged in several areas, but some of the most common places to check include:
Ears – particularly in dogs with longer or hairier ears.
Paws – grass seeds can become trapped between the toes before penetrating the skin.
Eyes – seeds caught around the eye can cause significant irritation and discomfort.
Coat and skin – a seed can become caught in the fur and eventually work its way beneath the skin
What signs should I look out for?
The symptoms will depend on where the grass seed has become lodged. A dog with a grass seed in their ear, for example, may suddenly start shaking their head or scratching at the affected ear.
If a seed has become embedded in a paw, you might notice your pet licking or chewing the area repeatedly, limping or becoming reluctant to put weight on the affected foot. Redness, swelling or a small wound may also develop.
Seeds around the eye can cause squinting, excessive blinking, redness or discharge.
The important thing to look out for is a sudden change in your pet’s behaviour, particularly following a walk through long or dry grass.
Check your pet after walks
A quick check after walks can help you spot grass seeds before they have an opportunity to cause problems.
Pay particular attention to your pet’s paws and the spaces between their toes, as well as around their ears, eyes and any areas with longer or thicker fur. Keeping the coat around the paws well groomed can also make it easier to spot anything that shouldn’t be there.
If you notice a loose grass seed sitting on the surface of your pet’s coat, it can usually be gently removed. However, if a seed appears to have penetrated the skin or become lodged in an ear or around the eye, don’t try to dig it out yourself.
When should I contact my vet?
Grass seed problems are often much easier to deal with when they’re identified early. If your pet starts shaking their head, limping, persistently licking an area or showing any other signs of discomfort after being outdoors, it’s worth getting them checked.
Keep an eye out
Grass seeds shouldn’t stop you and your pet enjoying the outdoors, but being aware of the risk and giving your pet a quick check after walks can make a real difference.
If something doesn’t seem right or you’re concerned your pet may have picked up a grass seed, please get in touch with the Southwater Vets team. We’d always rather take a look sooner rather than later.
