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My dog has a lump between his toes. Is it an interdigital cyst or emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 8 years and 8 months old | 80 lbs

Hi! Yesterday I found a blister/pimple looking lump between my dogs toes! After doing some Googling, I believe it may be an interdigital cyst. What is your opinion? Could you tell what it is? Also, do you think this is an emergency? I made an appointment at my vet today, but the earliest I could get in is next Tuesday.. he is not limping, but he is licking a little. I just cleaned his paw with a betadine solution, and now bump looks like it has opened up a little. Any ideas? Thank you! Anna

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on September 3rd, 2019

It could be a cyst. It could also be a result or a foreign body such as a splinter or grass awn. Unless he he very painful or lethargic. It probably isn't an emergency. Of course, the sooner treatment is started, the sooner he will heal up. Keep the site clean and dry. Use an e-collar (cone) to prevent licking until he sees the vet.

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 13th, 2017

    It sounds like she could have an interdigital cyst. Your vet could do a fine needle aspirate to determine the exact cause but she probably needs an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory to treat the problem. You could also soak her paw in a warm Epsom salt solution and see if that helps. If the lesion persists than your vet could perform surgery to remove it.

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