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My dog has a cut on her mouth. What can I put on it safely at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 5 years and 11 months old | 22 lbs

I accidentally kicked my yorkie in the mouth as she was about to jump off the bed. Now she has a slight cut on the upper corner crease of her mouth. What can I put on it that won't harm her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 13th, 2016

I wouldn't recommend any topical medications around the mouth. If she seems comfortable and her teeth all seem okay, it's probably okay to monitor the laceration. The mouth tends to heal quickly. If she seems painful or you start to notice yellow, green or foul smelling discharge from the wound make an appointment with your veterinarian.

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on August 25th, 2018

    Ouch poor pup! While having a vet take a look is always the best option, cleaning out the wound and keeping it dry is a good thing to do for home care. You may also want to place an Elizabethan (cone) collar on Maisy to prevent her from scratching at it while the wound heals. This can help prevent infection and keep irritation down. If the wounds is very large and not closing, has loose flaps of skin, appears infected, or is bleeding without stopping, then these usually require stitches, drainage, medication, or other immediate vet care. If the wound is small and stopped bleeding/easily cleaned at home, you can keep an eye on it and just try to keep the area clean and free of debris. Signs of infection (and that you need to see a vet ASAP) include oozing of debris from the site that is discolored, pain, heat on touch, redness, swelling, inflammation, etc.

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