Pet owners are warned by vet over danger of grass seeds
DOG and cat owners in Rotherham are being warned of the danger of grass seeds which can ‘drill’ into their pets’ skin.
Yorkshire vet Dr Charlotte Inness, founder of online veterinary pharmacy VetMedi.co.uk, says that failing to check pets after they have been outside could lead to an emergency veterinary bill of up to £5,000.
Dr Inness said that the millions of wild grass seeds currently blanketing the region act like a “one-way drill”.
They can catch on a pet’s coat and pierce the skin, migrating deep inside the flesh to cause devastating internal injuries.
As a result, a simple evening walk - or an outdoor cat exploring the undergrowth - can rapidly turn into a medical emergency, even causing blindness.
Danger signs in cats and dogs include obsessive licking or nibbling between the toes, sudden swelling, or unexplained lameness; repeated head shaking, a persistent head tilt, or sudden sensitivity around the ears; excessive weeping of eyes, redness, or a dog constantly rubbing its face with a paw; violent sneezing fits, pawing at the muzzle, or a discharge from only one nostril; non-healing wounds, “weeping” lumps, or sudden lethargy; persistent coughing, gagging, or respiratory distress.
Dr Inness said owners should give pets a thorough check after they have been outside, try wiping a dog down with a damp towel as this flattens the coat to make seeds easier to spot, shake out bedding, and avoid areas of long seeding grass.
Dr Inness said: "Many owners remain blissfully unaware of just how quickly a standard summer walk or backyard explore can turn into a veterinary emergency.
“Although we see many problems caused by grass seeds every summer, we are seeing a lot of cases of pets with grass seeds not just in their paws and ears, but also inhaled.
“They can be really dangerous, and dogs that sniff the grass heavily, like spaniels, are particularly prone to problems.
“Cats are meticulous groomers, meaning they often accidentally swallow grass seeds or get them lodged in their gums and throats while cleaning their fur.
“Because cats are experts at hiding pain, owners should look out for subtle signs like sudden lethargy, hiding away, or a cat rubbing at its face.”