What Are Grass Awns?

Grass awns, often unnoticed yet common in natural landscapes, pose a significant health risk to pets in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. These small, seed-bearing structures from grasses such as foxtail, spear grass, and wild barley are designed to burrow into the soil for germination. Unfortunately, they can also burrow into a pet’s fur, skin, or even internal tissues, leading to severe medical complications.

Why They Pose a Threat

Grass awns have a barbed, arrow-like shape that allows them to latch onto fur and penetrate the skin. Once embedded, they migrate deeper into the body, causing infections, abscesses, and even organ damage. In severe cases, grass awns can reach vital organs, leading to life-threatening conditions such as peritonitis (abdominal infection) or pleuritis (lung inflammation).

The Hidden Dangers of Grass Awns for Pets

How Grass Awns Harm Pets

Grass awns can enter a pet’s body through:

  • Skin – Leading to abscesses and severe infections
  • Paws – Embedding between toes and causing painful swelling
  • Ears – Leading to chronic ear infections or ruptured eardrums
  • Eyes – Causing irritation, ulcers, or even vision loss
  • Nasal passages – Resulting in sneezing, nasal discharge, and respiratory distress
  • Mouth and throat – Leading to coughing, difficulty swallowing, or infections in the lungs

High-Risk Pets

  • Long-haired dogs (e.g., Golden Retrievers, Poodles) are at higher risk due to their dense fur.
  • Outdoor-active dogs that run through tall grass are more likely to pick up awns.
  • Cats that roam outdoors may accidentally ingest or step on awns, leading to internal or paw infections.

Recognizing the Signs of Grass Awn Problems in Pets

Early Symptoms

  • Excessive licking or biting at a particular area
  • Frequent head shaking (if lodged in ears)
  • Pawing at the face or rubbing against furniture
  • Sneezing or nasal discharge

Advanced Symptoms

If the awn has migrated deeper, signs may include:

  • Swelling, redness, or pus-filled lumps on the skin
  • Limping or holding up a paw
  • Persistent coughing or gagging
  • Lethargy or signs of pain

When to Seek Veterinary Help

If you suspect your pet has encountered a grass awn, do not wait. Seek veterinary care immediately to prevent further migration and complications.

Contact Wellness Animal Hospital

Preventing Grass Awn Injuries in Pets

Regular Grooming and Inspection

  • Brush your pet daily, especially after outdoor activities.
  • Check between toes, under armpits, and inside ears for awns.
  • Trim long fur around the paws and ears to reduce risk.

Regular Pet Grooming – ASPCA

Safe Outdoor Practices

  • Avoid walking pets through tall, unkempt grass or fields with foxtails.
  • Keep your yard well-maintained to reduce grass awn growth.
  • Opt for pet-friendly parks or paved trails during outdoor activities.

Protective Gear for Dogs

  • Dog boots help prevent awns from embedding between paw pads.
  • Protective vests or bodysuits minimize fur exposure.

First-Aid for Grass Awn Exposure

What to Do If You Find a Grass Awn on Your Pet

  • If loose: Remove it gently with tweezers.
  • If embedded in the skin: Do not attempt to remove it yourself. This can push the awn deeper.
  • If in the eye, nose, or ear: Seek veterinary care immediately.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Minor Wounds

If a shallow wound is present:

  1. Flush the area with saline or warm water.
  2. Apply an antiseptic like diluted chlorhexidine.
  3. Monitor for redness, swelling, or discharge.

When to Call Your Veterinarian

  • If you see red, swollen, or painful areas on your pet.
  • If your pet keeps shaking its head, sneezing, or coughing.
  • If the awn has migrated under the skin or into an orifice.

Veterinary Treatment for Grass Awn Injuries at Wellness Animal Hospital

Diagnostic Techniques

Our veterinarians use a combination of:

  • Physical exams – Checking common entry points like paws, ears, and skin folds.
  • Imaging (X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans) – To locate deeply embedded awns.
  • Endoscopy – If awns are lodged in the nasal cavity, throat, or lungs.

Treatment Options

  • Surgical removal – For deeply embedded awns.
  • Flushing the affected area – To remove residual debris and bacteria.
  • Antibiotics – To treat secondary infections.
  • Pain management – To ease discomfort during recovery.

Post-Treatment Care

  • Monitor your pet for signs of infection or recurring symptoms.
  • Follow-up appointments ensure complete healing and no residual foreign material.
  • Keep your pet’s environment clean and free from tall grass exposure.

Why Choose Wellness Animal Hospital for Grass Awn Treatment?

Expert Veterinary Team

Our Lakewood Ranch, FL team is highly experienced in diagnosing and treating grass awn injuries, ensuring your pet receives the best care.

Meet Our Team

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Our hospital is equipped with advanced imaging technology and surgical expertise to manage complex cases effectively.

Easy Appointment Scheduling

If your pet is showing symptoms of grass awn exposure, schedule a veterinary consultation today.

Contact Us

Additional Resources on Pet Health and Safety

FAQs About Grass Awns and Pets

Q: Can grass awns affect indoor pets?
A: While indoor pets are at lower risk, they can still be exposed through outdoor excursions or if awns are brought inside on clothing or other pets.

Q: How quickly do symptoms appear after exposure?
A: Symptoms may appear within hours to days, depending on the location of the awn and its migration.

Q: Are some pets more susceptible to grass awns?
A: Yes. Pets with long fur, thick coats, or floppy ears, as well as dogs that spend time hiking or playing in tall grass, are more vulnerable.

Grass awns are a serious but preventable danger to pets. Routine checks, proper grooming, and cautious outdoor activities can significantly reduce the risk. If you suspect your pet has encountered a grass awn, don’t wait—schedule an exam at Wellness Animal Hospital today to prevent complications.