Grass Seeds in Dogs and Cats: What Pet Owners Need to Know
Grass seeds might look small and harmless, but they can cause serious problems for dogs and cats. During the warmer months, dry grass can become a particular nuisance. The sharp, pointed shape of a grass seed allows it to catch onto fur and work its way into the skin.
Once it becomes trapped, it can move further into the body. Grass seeds can get into paws, ears, eyes and noses, where they may cause irritation, pain and infection.
That is why it is worth checking your pet carefully after walks, especially if they have been running through long grass.
What Are Grass Seeds?
Grass seeds are small, pointed seeds produced by certain types of grass. When the grass dries out, the seeds can easily attach themselves to an animal’s coat.
The problem is their shape.
A grass seed can work its way through fur and into the skin. Once inside, it may continue moving deeper rather than coming back out naturally.
Dogs are particularly vulnerable because they often spend a lot of time exploring grass, woodland and hedgerows. However, cats can also pick up grass seeds while exploring outdoors.
Where Can Grass Seeds Get Stuck?
Grass seeds can become lodged in several parts of your pet’s body.
The paws are a common problem area, particularly between the toes. Seeds can also become trapped around the ears and may enter the ear canal.
Other areas to watch include the:
- Eyes
- Nose
- Mouth
- Skin
- Ears
- Paws
The earlier a problem is spotted, the better. A seed that is sitting on the surface of the coat may be easy to remove. Once it has worked into the skin, things can become much more complicated.
Signs Your Pet May Have a Grass Seed
The signs will depend on where the grass seed has become trapped.
You may notice your dog or cat:
- Licking or chewing their paws more than usual
- Limping
- Shaking their head
- Scratching at an ear
- Sneezing repeatedly
- Rubbing their face
- Developing a sore or swollen area
- Having a red or watery eye
- Developing swelling or discharge
- Becoming uncomfortable when a particular area is touched
Sometimes the signs appear quite suddenly.
For example, your dog may return from a walk and start constantly licking one paw. Or they may begin shaking their head and scratching at one ear.
These changes should not be ignored.
Grass Seeds in Your Dog’s Paws
Paws are one of the areas most commonly affected by grass seeds.
A seed can become caught between the toes or work its way into the skin. You may notice your dog licking one paw repeatedly, limping or becoming reluctant to walk.
Check between the toes and around the pads after walks, particularly if your dog has been through long or dry grass.
If you cannot see anything but your dog remains uncomfortable, contact your vet. A grass seed can sometimes be hidden beneath the skin.
Grass Seeds in the Ears
A grass seed entering the ear can be particularly uncomfortable.
Your dog or cat may shake their head, scratch at the ear or hold their head differently. You may also notice redness or discharge.
Do not try to dig around inside your pet’s ear with cotton buds or other objects. This could push the seed further inside or cause additional damage.
If you think there could be a grass seed in your pet’s ear, arrange a veterinary examination.
Grass Seeds and Your Pet’s Eyes
Grass seeds can also become trapped around the eye or underneath the eyelids.
Affected pets may have a red or watery eye and may keep it partly or completely closed. They may also rub their face against furniture or use their paw to scratch at the area.
Eye problems should be taken seriously. Even a small foreign object can cause damage to the surface of the eye.
If your pet’s eye suddenly becomes red, painful or watery after being outside, speak to your vet as soon as possible.
How Can I Protect My Pet?
You cannot always prevent your pet from coming into contact with grass seeds, but there are some simple steps that can reduce the risk.
Check Your Pet After Walks
Give your dog a quick check when you get home, especially after walks through long grass.
Pay particular attention to the paws, ears, legs and areas where grass seeds can become caught in the coat.
Keep Fur Trimmed
Long fur around the paws and ears can make it easier for grass seeds to become trapped.
Keeping these areas well groomed can make it easier to spot anything unusual.
Avoid Dry, Seeding Grass
Try to avoid areas where grass has become very dry and is producing lots of visible seeds.
You do not need to stop your dog enjoying the outdoors. Simply choosing clearer paths and keeping away from heavily seeded areas can help.
What Should I Do If I Find a Grass Seed?
If a grass seed is loosely attached to your pet’s fur, you may be able to remove it carefully.
However, do not keep trying if the seed appears to have entered the skin or is causing your pet pain.
Grass seeds can travel further into the body, so attempting to remove a deeply lodged seed yourself could make the problem worse.
If your pet is showing signs of discomfort, contact your veterinary team for advice.
When Should I Contact a Vet?
Contact your vet if your pet develops persistent symptoms after being outside, particularly if you notice swelling, discharge, limping, repeated sneezing, head shaking or an irritated eye.
Your vet can examine the affected area and determine whether a grass seed or another problem is responsible.
In some cases, the seed may need to be removed under sedation or during a procedure. Your vet will explain what is needed based on where the seed is located and how deeply it has travelled.
If your pet needs a procedure, you can find out more about the pet surgery services available at Rackheath Vets.
For concerns outside normal opening hours, you can also find information about our out of hours veterinary care.
Grass Seed Advice for Pet Owners in Rackheath and Norwich
Grass seeds are easy to overlook, but a quick check after a walk can make a big difference.
Take a few minutes to look over your pet, particularly their paws, ears and coat. If something does not look right, or your pet suddenly seems uncomfortable, do not wait for the problem to get worse.
At Rackheath Vets, we care for dogs and cats from Rackheath, Norwich and across Norfolk. If you are concerned that your pet may have picked up a grass seed, call our team on 01603 955056 for advice.