Spring means longer days, warmer weather and more time outdoors with your pet. But as grass dries out and seeds begin to appear, the risk of grass seed injuries also increases.
Grass seeds can become caught in your pet’s fur, paws, ears and eyes. In some cases, they can penetrate the skin and travel deeper into the body, causing pain, inflammation and infection.
Knowing the signs of a grass seed problem can help your pet receive treatment before it becomes more serious.
Why are grass seeds dangerous for pets?
Grass seeds may look small and harmless, but their pointed shape and fine barbs can make them difficult for pets to remove themselves.
Grass seeds and pets can be a particularly concerning combination during spring and summer, when pets are spending more time outdoors.
Grass seeds can become lodged in areas including:
- Between the toes and paw pads
- Inside the ears
- Around the eyes
- Under the skin
- In the coat
- Around the nose and mouth
Once a grass seed enters the skin, it can continue moving deeper into the body. This can cause inflammation, infection and ongoing discomfort.
Grass seed in dogs: signs to look out for
Dogs can pick up grass seeds while walking through long grass, playing in parks or exploring the backyard.
Signs of a grass seed injury can vary depending on where the seed has become lodged. You may notice:
- Licking or chewing one particular paw
- Limping or reluctance to walk
- Redness or swelling between the toes
- Head shaking or scratching at the ears
- Squinting or pawing at an eye
- Repeated sneezing
- Excessive licking of one area
- A sore, swollen or painful area of skin
- Discharge from an affected area
If your dog develops any of these signs after spending time in long grass, a grass seed could be the cause.
Can cats get grass seeds?
Yes. While grass seed problems are often associated with dogs, grass seed in cats can also occur.
Cats that spend time outdoors can pick up seeds in their coat or paws. Because cats are often good at hiding signs of pain, changes in their behaviour can be an important warning sign.
Your cat may:
- Groom or lick one area excessively
- Shake their head or scratch their ears
- Squint or keep one eye closed
- Become less active
- Avoid being touched in a particular area
- Develop swelling or a sore spot
If your cat has been outside and suddenly starts showing unusual behaviour, check their coat and paws and contact your veterinarian if you are concerned.
How can I prevent grass seed injuries?
You don’t need to stop your pet from enjoying the outdoors, but there are some simple ways to reduce their risk of grass seed injuries.
After walks or time outdoors:
- Check your pet’s paws, particularly between the toes.
- Check their ears and around their eyes.
- Brush their coat regularly, especially if they have long fur.
- Avoid areas with long, dry grass where possible.
- Keep grass and weeds trimmed in your backyard.
- Check your pet carefully after walks during spring and summer.
Regular grooming can also help you notice small wounds, swelling or other changes before they become more serious.
What should I do if I find a grass seed?
If a grass seed is loose and sitting on your pet’s coat, you may be able to gently remove it.
However, never try to dig out a grass seed that has already entered the skin. Attempting to remove it yourself could push the seed deeper or leave part of it behind.
Grass seeds lodged in the eyes, ears or deeper within the skin should be assessed by a veterinarian.
When should I see a vet?
If your pet is showing signs of pain, swelling, infection or persistent irritation after being outdoors, it’s important to seek veterinary advice.
Grass seeds can sometimes travel beneath the skin, making them difficult to locate and remove. Early treatment can help prevent complications and get your pet comfortable sooner.
If your pet suddenly starts limping, shaking their head, squinting, sneezing repeatedly or licking one area of their body after being outside, don’t ignore it.
Keeping your pet safe this spring
Grass seeds are just one of the seasonal hazards pet owners should be aware of as the weather warms up. Regular checks after outdoor adventures can help you spot problems early.
You can also read our guides on tips for grooming your pet, common eye problems in pets and winter care tips for pets for more advice on keeping your pet healthy throughout the year.
Book an appointment
Think your pet may have a grass seed injury?
If your pet is showing signs of pain, irritation, swelling or infection after spending time outdoors, our veterinary team can help.
Call 03 9328 3021 or book an appointment online today. Early assessment and treatment can help prevent a small grass seed problem from becoming a more serious health issue.