12/01/2023
GRASS SEEDS
Grass seeds come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are usually dart shaped and are made with spikes in such a way that once it pokes through the outer skin barrier, it is difficult to remove. Grass seeds need vet treatment to have the grass seed removed, often under sedation or general anaesthesia. Grass seeds create an inflammatory response causing pain and swelling at the entrance point. They can also cause infection, causing pain, may cause abscesses or travel quite a distance under the skin. The dangers of grass seeds are more common this time of year but can happen any time. Your pets can pick them up easily when on walks, particularly if there is longer grass. Pets with fluffy fur are more likely to get grass seeds as they attach to the fur before making their way into the skin. A grass seed may enter your pet’s skin anywhere such as body, mouth, nose or ears although it is most common to see them between the toes.
Pets may react differently depending upon the location and size of the seed.
Hair – If the grass seed hasn’t made it into the skin, there may just be matting of the fur.
Ear – Grass seeds in the ear canal are harder to detect as your dog may show similar signs to an ear infection. These include shaking their head, scratching at the ear, rubbing their ear on the floor, or tilting their head.
Eye – A seed between the eye and the eyelid may cause the eye to become red and inflamed, sometimes with discharge or tears. An ulcer of the cornea could result and possibly lead to vision loss.
Nose – A seed in the nose may cause your pet to sneeze, paw at their nose, and may result in some nasal discharge.
Skin – A pet may chew at an area where seeds have become attached to the skin, and as a result, the seed may burrow deeper or may pe*****te the lining of your pet’s mouth.
Paws – A grass seed caught in your dog’s paw may cause a red, swollen and discharging lump on the paw, your dog may limp or lick/chew at their paw constantly.
