Does your pet ever lick their paws? Lots do, sometimes for grooming, sometimes out of boredom, and sometimes because there’s something going on between those toes…
Interdigital cysts in dogs and cats are a common yet frustrating condition. These painful lumps, found between the toes, can cause discomfort and mobility issues.
Understanding what interdigital cysts are, what causes them, and how to treat them holistically can help pet parents provide relief and prevent future flare-ups.
What Are Interdigital Cysts?
Interdigital cysts, also known as interdigital furuncles, are not actually “true” cysts. Instead, they refer to any abscess between the toes. They’re inflamed, swollen nodules that develop between the toes of dogs and cats, and they often involve a bacterial infection.
While they may appear as simple bumps, they are actually deeper inflammatory lesions that can be persistent and difficult to heal. They can develop on any paw, but they are most commonly seen on the front paws.
Symptoms of interdigital cysts in dogs and cats include:
- Swollen, purple-ish red lumps between the toes
- Pain or sensitivity when walking
- Pus or blood discharge
- Hair loss
- Excessive licking or chewing at paws
- Limping or avoiding pressure on the affected foot
What’s Behind the Bumps?
The exact cause of interdigital cysts can vary, but several factors contribute to the development of interdigital cysts.
Often, an ingrown hair or foreign object is the culprit. With ingrown hairs, hair follicles between the toes can become clogged or infected, your pet licks because of the irritation, and this leads to inflammation and further infection. With foreign objects, small debris like grass seeds, burrs, thorns, or dirt can get lodged between the toes, leading to irritation and infection.
But these aren’t the only causes. Others include:
- Food or environmental allergies: Environmental or food allergies can lead to excessive licking and irritation, creating the perfect environment for cysts to form.
- Poor Paw Conformation: Pets with splayed toes or excessive webbing between their toes are more prone to developing cysts due to increased friction.
- Bacterial or Fungal Infections: Microbial imbalances can lead to recurrent cysts.
- Obesity: Overweight pets may put extra pressure on their paws, contributing to cyst development.
- Mites: The Demodex mite, a skin parasite, can cause interdigital cysts or furuncles as well as canine atopic dermatitis, an underlying skin condition.
Holistic Approaches to Treating Interdigital Cysts in Dogs and Cats
You don’t want to leave interdigital cysts in dogs and cats alone to heal on their own. The continued licking can lead to a secondary infection or further skin infection.
A holistic approach focuses on cleansing the wound, reducing inflammation, addressing the root cause, and promoting natural healing.
Step #1: Check and Clean
First, you want to take a good look at the area and see if there are any foreign bodies, debris, etc. that can be removed. Then it’s time to cleanse.
Do an Epsom salt soak (Safe for Dogs and Cats). An Epsom salt soak works by opening the skin and drawing out the infection and any foreign bodies. The magnesium in Epsom sales can help reduce swelling, relieve pain, and promote healing. Soak your pet’s paws in warm water with Epsom salt for 5–10 minutes daily. Dry the area thoroughly (but gently) with a clean cotton towel.
Step #2: Focus on Natural Healing
Below are some natural remedies to help manage and prevent interdigital cysts.
1. Turmeric Paste (Safe for Dogs and Cats)
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent. Mix turmeric powder with coconut oil and black pepper to make Golden Paste and apply it to the affected area. Ensure minimal ingestion for cats, as large amounts may not be well-tolerated. Here’s our recipe for Golden Paste.
2. Aloe Vera Gel (Safe for Dogs, Not for Cats)
Pure aloe vera has soothing and antimicrobial properties. Applying a small amount to the cyst can help reduce inflammation and speed up healing. Ensure the gel is free from added chemicals or latex compounds.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse (Safe for Dogs, Use with Caution in Cats)
Diluted apple cider vinegar (1:1 with water) can help balance the skin’s pH and reduce bacterial overgrowth. Use as a paw soak or gently apply with a cotton ball. Avoid use in cats with sensitive skin.
4. Herbal Antiseptic Rinse (Safe for Dogs and Cats)
A rinse made from chamomile, calendula, or green tea can provide natural antiseptic properties while soothing irritated skin. Brew a strong pot of these teas and let it cool. Soak a cotton cloth or piece of gauze and hold it to the area.
5. Dietary Support
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Safe for Dogs and Cats): Omega-3s help reduce systemic inflammation and improve skin health.
- Probiotics (Safe for Dogs and Cats): A healthy gut supports a strong immune system and reduces allergy-related inflammation.
- Medicinal Mushrooms (Safe for Dogs and Cats): Medicinal mushrooms will help balance the immune system to help protect against infections in the future.
- Liver Cleansing Herbs (Safe for Dogs and Cats): Several herbs have an affinity for the portal organs and can help detox toxins from the body. These include those found in our Liver Tonic (Dandelion root, celandine, milk thistle, and barberry).
6. Paw Hygiene & Maintenance
- Regularly trim the hair between your pet’s toes to reduce irritation.
- Keep paws clean and dry, especially after walks.
- Consider using protective pet boots or paw balms to protect sensitive feet.
When to See a Veterinarian
While holistic treatments can be effective, it is important to seek veterinary care if:
- The cysts worsen or keep recurring.
- There is excessive swelling, severe pain, or limping.
- The cysts rupture and develop into open wounds.
Interdigital cysts in dogs and cats can be painful and persistent, but with the right combination of holistic care you can help your pet find relief. And, by addressing underlying causes such as allergies, infections, and poor paw hygiene, you can prevent future occurrences and keep your dog’s and cat’s paws healthy and comfortable.
