What are grass seeds?

When the weather begins to warm up in Spring and Summer, it is the perfect time to adventure outdoors with your furry companion and to go have fun in the sun and start exploring. With the beautiful weather comes the growth of new vegetation – which unfortunately includes grass seeds. Grass seeds, also known as Foxtails, are a spikelet of sharp seeds that disperse onto the ground to create new life. When our canine friends play in grassy areas during this time, it is common for the sharp spikes to become attached to them – which can create a painful and dangerous infection.

Why are they dangerous to my pet?

Because of the sharp arrow-like end, grass seeds can easily migrate into the body of the animal. Commonly the paw pads, ears, eyes, genitals, nose and mouth are affected, but they are no stranger to migrating straight into the body wherever they can. Once the seeds have migrated, they can cause damage to the animal by creating painful infections, swelling and discharge. It is unfortunately not uncommon for the grass seeds to be removed surgically.

How do I check for grass seeds?

To avoid any grass seeds becoming embedded into your pet, it is always best to do a thorough check after any walks or outside play during Spring and Summer in particular. If you have a puppy, it is highly recommended to get them desensitised to being touched and begin positive handling practices. Check all areas and remove any seeds you can see.

Some signs can include -

Ears: scratching at ear, shaking their head, inflammation,

Eyes: Discharge, watery, unable to open the eye/s, irritation, inflammation, pawing face

Paws: Raised swelling between paw pads with a hole/entrance point, redness, discharge, smelly, inflammation, licking paws, limping, lame on leg/paw

Mouth/gums: Inflammation of gums, swelling, bleeding, painful when eating, not wanting to eat, pawing at the mouth

Nose: Sneezing, discharge, pawing at nose/face

Genitals: Swelling, discharge, inflammation, licking the area, trouble toileting, smelly.

If I am worried my pet has a grass seed – What should I do?

If you are worried your pet has a grass seed, it is best to bring them in immediately to be checked over by one of our friendly Veterinarians. They will then be able to provide the best care for the individual patients needs and treat them accordingly.

To make a booking – visit www.thornburyvet.com.au/book or call us during business hours on 9480 1333