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Cut dog's quick, used corn starch. Is the bad smell an infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 2 years and 6 months old | 50 lbs

I cut my dogs nails last night and she twitched so one cut down very short and hit the quick. She bled for a while & I finally read that corn starch helped so I put globs of corn starch on and wrapped it up for about 15-17 hours. I just unwrapped it and it was not bleeding any more but there was a bad smell. Is this the left over blood / corn starch or could it be infected? I had to go back to work so I left it unwrapped to get air.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 31st, 2017

Hi there and thank you for using Pet Coach to address your concern. It is not likely that the nail became infected that quickly last night and it is more likely that the corn starch mixed with blood and moisture created a bad odor. I would leave the nail unwrapped. If you begin to see pus or any discharge at the site of the broken nail or any swelling of the toe, I would have Zoey examined by a veterinarian as she may need a course of an oral antibiotic. I would suggest soaking the foot in a solution of betadine and saline (so that you have a light brown solution). Soak the foot twice daily for 5-10 minutes at a time for 3-5 days and then stop. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns. I am also available via consultation if needed.

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    In the picture it doesn’t look infected but I cannot say for sure without an exam. If it still smells when you get home or if she is licking it, I would have your vet take a look at it to ensure it isn’t infected and also to make sure the nail isn’t cracked elsewhere. I hope this helps!

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