Interdigital Cysts in Dogs: Causes, Treatment & Long-Term Management

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Rocco’s Story and What Pet Parents Should Know

Interdigital cysts are a common — and often very painful — condition affecting dogs, particularly short-haired, stocky breeds such as Bulldogs, Boxers and Bull Terriers. These lesions appear between the toes and can range from mild swelling to severely inflamed, ulcerated and pus-filled sores.

Recently, Rocco, a handsome Bulldog, came to see us at Bruma Lake Vet with painful lumps between his toes that were making walking uncomfortable. On examination, the lesions were ulcerated and filled with pus — classic signs of interdigital cysts.

Rocco’s case is just one of many presentations we see, and it highlights why early diagnosis and proper management are so important.

What Are Interdigital Cysts?

Despite their name, interdigital “cysts” are not true cysts. They are best described as deep inflammatory lesions that form in the skin between a dog’s toes.

They develop when hair follicles in the webbing between the toes become damaged, blocked or ruptured. This triggers inflammation deep within the skin and often leads to secondary bacterial infection, which causes swelling, pain and discharge.

Over time, these lesions can rupture, ulcerate and recur — making them frustrating for both dogs and their owners if not properly managed.

Why Do Interdigital Cysts Occur?

Interdigital cysts rarely have a single cause. In most cases, several contributing factors are involved.

Common Predisposing Factors

Breed & Paw Conformation
Dogs with broad, splayed feet or poor foot conformation place extra mechanical stress on the skin between their toes. Bulldogs are particularly prone because of the constant pressure and friction in this area.

Coat Type
Short, stiff, bristly hair can easily penetrate the skin between the toes, acting like a foreign body and triggering inflammation.

Allergies
Environmental or food allergies commonly affect the paws. Chronic licking, chewing and inflammation weaken the skin barrier and make infections more likely.

Obesity
Extra body weight increases pressure on the feet, worsening irritation and delaying healing.

Foreign Bodies
Grass seeds, thorns or debris can lodge between the toes and cause local trauma and infection.

Parasites & Infections
Mites, yeast or bacterial infections may contribute to ongoing inflammation.

Hormonal or Immune Conditions
Underlying endocrine disorders or immune-mediated disease can impair skin health and healing.

Clinical Signs to Watch For

Dogs with interdigital cysts may show:

  • Swelling or firm lumps between the toes

  • Redness, ulceration or open sores

  • Pus or bloody discharge

  • Limping or reluctance to walk

  • Excessive licking or chewing at the paws

  • Pain when paws are touched

Because these lesions are painful, dogs may become irritable or less active.

How Are Interdigital Cysts Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on:

  • Clinical examination of the paws

  • Assessment of breed, history and recurrence

  • Identifying signs of infection or inflammation

In recurrent or severe cases, additional diagnostics may be recommended, such as:

  • Skin cytology or cultures to identify bacteria or yeast

  • Allergy investigations

  • Biopsies (in rare or non-responsive cases)

  • Blood tests to rule out underlying conditions

Treatment: How We Help Dogs Like Rocco

Treatment depends on severity, infection and whether the condition is acute or chronic.

Medical Management

In Rocco’s case, treatment included:

  • Antibiotics to address secondary bacterial infection

  • Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling

  • Topical cortisone cream to calm inflammation

  • Antiseptic paw washes to keep the area clean and reduce bacterial load

This approach is effective for many dogs when started early.

Supportive Care

  • Keeping paws clean and dry

  • Preventing licking (using cones or boots if needed)

  • Weight management where applicable

Long-Term Management & Prevention

Interdigital cysts can recur, especially in predisposed breeds. Long-term management may include:

  • Regular medicated paw baths

  • Ongoing allergy management if allergies are identified

  • Weight control

  • Routine paw inspections after walks

  • Addressing underlying infections promptly

In chronic, severe or non-responsive cases, surgical intervention or referral to a veterinary dermatologist may be considered.

When Should You See a Vet?

If you notice any swelling, sores, discharge or limping related to your dog’s paws, it’s important to seek veterinary care early. Prompt treatment reduces pain, speeds healing and lowers the risk of recurrence.

Final Thoughts

Interdigital cysts are uncomfortable, frustrating and often recurrent — but with proper diagnosis, treatment and long-term management, most dogs can remain comfortable and active.

Rocco is already well on his way to recovery, and with continued care, we’re hopeful his paws will stay healthy going forward.

If your dog is licking their paws excessively, limping, or has sores between their toes, our team at Bruma Lake Vet is here to help.

The Hidden Dangers of Skipping Parasite Prevention in Pets

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Parasite prevention isn’t just about avoiding scratching or nuisance pests — it’s a critical part of protecting your pet’s overall health. Fleas, ticks and internal parasites can cause serious, sometimes life-threatening illness when prevention is missed or inconsistent.

Fleas: More Than Just an Itch

Fleas are extremely common, especially during warmer months. While many pet owners associate fleas with scratching, the risks go far beyond discomfort.

Fleas can cause:

  • Severe itching and skin infections
  • Flea allergy dermatitis, which can lead to hair loss, wounds and chronic skin disease
  • Tapeworm infections when pets ingest fleas while grooming
  • Anaemia, particularly dangerous for puppies, kittens and small pets

A heavy flea infestation can weaken young or elderly pets quickly — and once fleas establish themselves in your home, they can be very difficult to eliminate.

Ticks: Small Parasites, Serious Consequences

Ticks are more than just a local irritation. Certain tick species in South Africa transmit life-threatening diseases.

Tick-related risks include:

  • Painful local reactions and skin infections
  • Tick bite fever (Ehrlichiosis) — which can cause fever, bleeding disorders, weakness and organ damage
  • Babesiosis — a potentially fatal disease affecting red blood cells, leading to severe anaemia

These illnesses often require intensive treatment and hospitalisation. Preventing tick attachment is far safer — and far less costly — than treating tick-borne disease.

Worms: The Invisible Threat

Internal parasites are often overlooked because they’re not always visible, but they pose serious risks to pets and people.

Worm infestations can cause:

  • Weight loss and poor growth
  • Diarrhoea and vomiting
  • Pot-bellied appearance in puppies
  • Anaemia
  • Zoonotic risk — some worms can infect humans, especially children

Worm burdens increase during wet weather, and when new puppies and kittens are introduced into homes. Regular deworming is essential, even for pets that appear healthy.

Why Regular Preventative Treatment Matters

Parasite preventatives such as flea, tick and worm treatments work best when given consistently and correctly. Missing doses allows parasites to return — often unnoticed — until serious illness develops.

Preventative care:

  • Protects your pet’s health long-term
  • Reduces the risk of expensive emergency treatment
  • Helps keep your home and family safe
  • Supports healthier skin, coat and immune function

How Different Brands Work

Flea & tick options

Frontline (Fipronil)

  • Kills fleas and ticks on contact.
  • Applied topically once a month.
  • Fast-acting, safe for cats and dogs, widely available.
  • Effectiveness decreases with frequent bathing.

Bravecto (Fluralaner)

  • Chewable (dogs only) or topical form.
  • Lasts up to 12 weeks for fleas and ticks.
  • More expensive than monthly treatments

Simparica (Sarolaner)

  • Chewable tablet for dogs only.
  • Protects against fleas and ticks for one month (Simparica Trio offers comprehensive protection against fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, and hookworms)

NexGard (Afoxolaner)

  • Chewable tablet for dogs only.
  • Protects against fleas and ticks for one month

Flea, tick & dewormer combination

NexGard Spectra (Afoxolaner + milbemycin oxime)

  • Chewable tablet for dogs only.
  • Protects against fleas and ticks as well as worms and heartworm for one month
  • More expensive option

NexGard Combo for cats (Esafoxolaner + eprinomectin + praziquantel)

  • Topical spot-on treatment for cats
  • Provides broad-spectrum protection against both external and internal parasites in one monthly treatment.

Revolution Plus (Selamectin + sarolaner)

  • Topical monthly treatment for cats and dogs.
  • Protects against fleas, some ticks, heartworm, and certain intestinal parasites.

Advocate (Imidacloprid + moxidectin)

  • Topical monthly treatment for cats and dogs.
  • Provides comprehensive protection against fleas, heartworm, intestinal worms, ear mites, lice, and mange mites
  • Lack of protection against ticks and tapeworms

No One-Size-Fits-All Approach

When it comes to parasite prevention, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach — your pet’s lifestyle plays a huge role. 

Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, visit dog parks, or interact with other animals are at higher risk of picking up fleas, ticks, and worms. 

Cats that roam freely are more likely to hunt prey and encounter parasites, while indoor-only pets may have a lower risk but aren’t completely immune. 

Household factors also matter: if you have young children, other pets, or live in a region with high tick or flea prevalence, extra vigilance is important. 

Chewables are oral, long-lasting, no-mess, great for swimmers/sensitive skin, while spot-ons are topical liquids applied to the skin, offering broad-spectrum protection, but can wash off or cause skin irritation. 

The best choice depends on your pet’s habits (swimming, skin sensitivity) and your lifestyle, so consult your vet for tailored advice.

We’re Here to Help

Every pet’s needs are different. Our team can help you choose the right parasite prevention plan for your dog or cat based on their age, lifestyle and risk factors.

If you’re unsure whether your pet is fully protected — or if you’ve missed treatments — chat to us. Prevention is always better than cure.

Coco’s Pancreatitis Journey — What Every Dog Owner Should Know

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Meet Coco, a brave little patient who recently spent an extended period in our hospital recovering from pancreatitis. We’re thrilled to share that he has improved enough to go home — but his journey is an important reminder of how serious this condition can be, how varied the causes are, and why early veterinary care is essential.

What Is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed and begins releasing digestive enzymes prematurely. Instead of activating in the intestines (where they should), these enzymes activate inside the pancreas, leading to:

  • Self-digestion of pancreatic tissue
  • Inflammation of surrounding organs
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Systemic illness that can quickly become life-threatening

Pancreatitis can affect dogs of any breed, age, or size, and it may occur once (acute pancreatitis) or recur over time (chronic pancreatitis).

Coco’s Case: A Sudden and Severe Onset

Coco arrived at Bruma Lake Vet showing classic symptoms:

  • Persistent vomiting shortly after eating
  • Intense abdominal pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy and dehydration

Although pancreatitis is often triggered by eating a high-fat meal, that wasn’t the case for Coco. He actually eats a prescription gastrointestinal diet and avoids fatty foods entirely — a good reminder that not all pancreatitis cases have a dietary cause.

Initial examinations raised suspicion, and a Canine Specific Pancreatic Lipase (cPL) test confirmed it, returning extremely high levels. Blood tests also revealed dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and strain on his kidneys.

Thanks to early intervention, Coco responded well to treatment, and he is now home on a special diet of small, frequent meals, pain medication, and regular follow-ups.

Causes of Pancreatitis in Dogs

While some cases appear seemingly out of the blue, several factors can increase the risk. These include:

1. Dietary Causes

  • Sudden ingestion of fatty or oily foods (e.g., table scraps, leftovers, braai fat)
  • Spicy or highly processed human foods

2. Metabolic or Hormonal Diseases

  • Hypothyroidism
  • Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism)
  • Diabetes mellitus

These conditions can change fat metabolism and trigger inflammation.

3. Obesity

  • Overweight dogs have a significantly higher risk.

4. Certain Medications

Some drugs can predispose dogs to pancreatic irritation, including:

  • Corticosteroids
  • Certain antibiotics
  • Some anti-seizure medications

5. Genetic or Breed Predisposition

Some breeds are more prone, including:

  • Miniature Schnauzers
  • Yorkshire Terriers
  • Cocker Spaniels
  • Dachshunds

6. Trauma or Shock

Abdominal injury or severe systemic shock can trigger inflammation of the pancreas.

7. Idiopathic Causes

In many cases — like Coco’s — no obvious trigger is found. A genetic predisposition is suspected in these dogs.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Pancreatitis can vary from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

  • Vomiting (sometimes multiple times per day)
  • Abdominal pain (often severe)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Diarrhoea
  • Restlessness or panting
  • Hunched posture
  • Fever

Severe cases may lead to:

  • Collapse
  • Jaundice
  • Heart arrhythmias
  • Organ failure

Any dog showing these symptoms should be seen by a vet immediately.

pancreatitis diagramme

How Pancreatitis Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis involves a combination of:

1. Clinical Symptoms & Physical Examination

Abdominal pain, vomiting and dehydration raise suspicion early on.

2. Blood Tests

These assess:

  • Electrolytes
  • Kidney and liver function
  • Inflammatory markers
  • Hydration levels

These results guide the treatment plan.

3. cPL (Canine Specific Pancreatic Lipase) Test

This is one of the most accurate blood tests for detecting pancreatic inflammation. A high result strongly supports a diagnosis of pancreatitis.

4. Abdominal Ultrasound

Ultrasound helps:

  • Confirm pancreatic swelling or changes
  • Identify complications
  • Rule out other causes of vomiting or pain

5. X-rays (in some cases)

Useful to exclude intestinal obstruction or other conditions with similar symptoms.

Treatment Options for Pancreatitis

Because pancreatitis can become life-threatening, treatment is often aggressive and may require hospitalisation.

Treatment may include:

1. Intravenous Fluids

To correct dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and support kidney function.

2. Pain Relief

Pancreatitis is very painful — strong pain medication is essential for recovery.

3. Anti-Nausea & Anti-Vomiting Medication

To stop persistent vomiting and allow food to stay down.

4. Dietary Management

  • Low-fat, highly digestible food
  • Small, frequent meals
  • Gradual reintroduction of normal intake

5. Antibiotics

Not always needed, but used if infection is suspected.

6. Monitoring for Complications

Such as:

  • Kidney injury
  • Liver inflammation
  • Diabetes
  • Systemic infections
  • Shock

Coco required IV fluids, pain management, anti-nausea medication, and careful nutritional support — and thankfully responded well.

Prognosis and Long-Term Management

Many dogs recover fully, especially if treated early. Some may develop chronic pancreatitis and require ongoing dietary management.

Long-term care may include:

  • Prescription low-fat diets
  • Weight management
  • Avoiding all table scraps
  • Monitoring blood work
  • Managing underlying conditions (e.g., hypothyroidism)

Coco will continue to be monitored through follow-up blood tests to ensure his recovery remains on track.

How to Prevent Pancreatitis

  • Avoid feeding fatty foods or human leftovers
  • Keep pets at a healthy weight
  • Use only vet-approved treats
  • Store rubbish securely
  • Manage hormonal or metabolic diseases early
  • Choose pet foods appropriately (especially for sensitive dogs)

Final Thoughts

Pancreatitis is a serious condition — but with prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment and careful long-term management, many dogs like Coco can make a strong recovery.

If your dog shows symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain or loss of appetite, contact us right away. Early intervention can make all the difference.

💙 Bruma Lake Vet — Caring for your pets with knowledge, compassion and experience.