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My dog's sebaceous cyst is bleeding. How do I prevent infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | unspayed | 8 years and 7 months old

Hi My 8 year old shih Tzu has a number of sebaceous cysts on her body, which the vet said were nothing to worry about. However, one of the larger ones on her back started to bleed last night, and I noticed a 'hole' at the bottom of it. I cleaned it as best I could, but am worried that it could become infected. I would appreciate any advice.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

Published on January 6th, 2017

My own dog has several of the same lesions. Yes, they can become infected but typically if that happens the infection is localized and resolves without intervention as long as you can prevent Fifi from licking, chewing or scratching the area. A few of the cysts were becoming more of a problem so I had Lori's removed. If Fifi's cysts continue to bleed or become infected, discuss removal with your veterinarian. If the cysts are small enough, removal can be done with a sedative and local pain block. Try not to worry, Fido should be fine. Apply an E-collar of needed to keep her from traumatizing the area.

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