My dog's paw cut isn't healing. Does it need antibiotics or topical care?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | 149 lbs
My dog has a cut on his paw from a few weeks ago. It’s slow healing, but recently became more inflamed and warm to the touch. Does he need antibiotics? Or is topical, over the counter care enough?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on October 16th, 2017
The toe does look very inflamed and swollen and it might be getting infected which would warrant oral antibiotics. You could also try to soak the foot in a dilute betadine solution (use warm water and dilute to the color of weak tea). Dry it thoroughly, then place triple antibiotic ointment on the wound and then bandage it. You should do this twice daily. If the wound isn't improving, you will most likely need to take Jimmy to the vet for further care and medications.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on July 15th, 2017
A lump such as this could be many things, including an interdigital cyst, an abscess, a foreign body reaction, or a tumor (some tumors are benign and nothing to worry about and others are more aggressive and require removal). I would recommend having your vet examine the area. They may recommend a needle aspirate (involves inserting a small needle into the swelling) to help determine what is causing the swelling and how best to treat the area.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on June 4th, 2017
It sounds like your dog may be in need of antibiotics if this wound is still not healing after a week and is getting more swollen. Other possibilities would include a foreign object like a splinter or grass awn buried in the wound and preventing the area from healing, or an interdigital cyst. A vet exam is needed to examine the area more fully and determine the best treatment.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on June 24th, 2018
Your dog may have an underlying allergy that causes him to lick and chew at the feet which in turn causes infection. I would recommend talking with your vet about an allergy medication like Cytopoint or Apoquel to help keep the allergy under control. Your dog will need this along with medication (probably antibiotics) to get the infection under control.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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