Grass Seeds
Grass seeds are small, barbed seeds from various types of grasses that can attach to a pet’s fur and become embedded under the skin
What Are Grass Seeds?
Grass seeds are small, barbed seeds from various types of grasses that can attach to a pet’s fur and become embedded under the skin. Common locations include the ears, paws, eyes and nose. Their sharp, arrow-like shape allows them to travel deeper into the body, causing pain, infection, and serious health complications if left untreated.
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we provide expert treatment to help your pet in the case of suspected grass seeds.
Signs Your Pet May Have a Grass Seed Problem
Your pet may have grass seeds intact if they experience any of the following:
🐾 Limping or licking paws – Seeds commonly embed between toes, causing discomfort.
🐾 Head shaking or ear scratching – A sign that a seed may be lodged in the ear canal.
🐾 Red, swollen, or weepy eyes – Seeds can get trapped under the eyelid.
🐾 Swelling or abscesses on the skin – Seeds can burrow into the skin and cause infection.
🐾 Sneezing or nasal discharge – If inhaled, a seed may be lodged in the nasal passages.
🐾 Coughing or difficulty breathing – A sign that a seed has entered the airway or lungs.
What Causes Grass Seed Problems in Pets?
Grass seeds become problematic when they attach to a pet’s coat and migrate into the skin or body. Pets are most at risk during warmer months when grasses are dry and seeding. Long-haired and floppy-eared breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels and Golden Retrievers, are particularly vulnerable.
When to See a Vet
If you notice signs of discomfort, swelling, limping, or excessive licking, book a vet appointment promptly. Left untreated, grass seeds can travel deep into the body, requiring surgical removal.
Professional Grass Seed Treatment at My Corner Vet
At My Corner Vet, we provide immediate care for cats injured in fights, which may include:
Thorough examination
To locate embedded grass seeds and special tools to remove
Sedation or anesthesia
If necessary, for deep or painful extractions
Disinfecting
Flushing and disinfecting areas were grass seeds were located
Antibiotics
Antibiotics and pain relief to treat inflammation and infections
How to Prevent Grass Seed Problems in Pets
🐾 Regular grooming – Trim fur around paws, ears, and underarms to reduce seed attachment.
🐾 Check your pet after walks – Inspect fur, paws, ears, and eyes for seeds.
🐾 Avoid overgrown grassy areas – Stick to short grass and maintained trails.
You can take steps to reduce the risk:
If your pet experiences grass seed issues, call our vets for support and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Occasionally, but most seeds embed deeper over time, leading to infection or abscesses. It’s best to have a vet remove them. If a grass seed does exit by itself, your pet may still require veterinary care for wound management and or infections.
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Signs include head shaking, scratching at the ear, holding the head to one side, or whining in pain.
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It can migrate deeper into the body, causing infections, swelling, and may require surgical removal.
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Yes, though less common than in dogs, long-haired cats can get grass seeds in their paws, ears, or eyes.
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The most common areas are the paws, inside the ears, under the eyelids, in the nostrils, and embedded in the skin.
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🐾 Expert and fast treatment for grass seeds in pets
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📍 Clinic Location: 134 Broadway, Nedlands, WA
📞 Call Us: (08) 6285 8535
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If your pet has a grass seed concern, call us for assistance and support!
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