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My Chihuahua's eye is swollen with a hole. Is it a worm or bite?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 7 lbs

I have a brown Chihuahua and. On his left lower eye look like he got bit by something. It was swollen one day and the next it was a big hole which look like a worm in it.. it doesn't seem to bother him to much from his daily activities. There also two cats and a author dog around. Don't know if they bit him or what.. or be worried to let the other animals around if it a worm or a parasites..

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 5th, 2017

Poor Booty! I think he should be examined by a vet to determine the exact cause and best way to treat. Your vet can shave the area and clean it to determine the cause. It could be a ruptured abscess from a bite but it is hard to tell without examining the wound. Your vet can also examine his mouth to make sure he doesn't have a dental problem. He may need an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and/or other medications to treat. Please call your vet an schedule an examination so treatment can be started. Hope he gets better soon!

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    Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi there. I can't see the worm you're speaking of in the photos is Booty-but if there is one it's usually either maggots (smaller and yellowish white) or cuterebra (larger and usually dark in color). Either would need extraction. Bite wounds are a possibility as well, and could have abscessed out. He will need antibiotics for this wound and pain medications-so I'd recommend having him seen by your veterinarian as soon as you can. Likely he will need stitches as well to close the wound if it is very deep and doesn't need to be left open to drain. Hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Rachel

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It appears that he may have a ruptured abscess, which is a deep infection that could have been caused by a bite wound, a tooth root infection, or something else entirely. It would be a good idea to put a cone collar on Booty so he can't scratch his face and irritate the wound. He should then be examined by a vet to ensure the would does not extend too deep or contain any foreign material inside that could be contributing. He may need to go on antibiotics in order for the wound to heal appropriately. It is most likely not something that can be contagious to your dogs, but try to keep them from licking Booty's face as that may worsen the infection.

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