Oral papillomas in dogs are a common, yet often misunderstood, skin condition in dogs. While they may look unsightly and uncomfortable, most warts pose no serious health risks to dogs. Warts in dogs are caused by the papillomavirus and can occur anywhere on the body. When warts develop inside the mouth, they are called oral papillomas. You may be wondering what this has to do with your pet's health. Here are some things you should know about these warts and why they're important for your dog.
What are oral papillomas in dogs and what causes them?
Dog warts, also known as papillomas, are a common skin condition in dogs that are caused by the papillomavirus. They are painless and harmless growths on the skin of dogs with a cauliflower appearance. This virus is very contagious and can cause warts to form anywhere on the dog's body. But they're most common around the head and mouth. When dogs develop warts inside their mouth or on their lips, they are called oral papillomas. It's important to note that dog warts are not a serious health risk to dogs. When there are multiple warts present, the condition is called oral papillomatosis.
Are oral papillomas in dogs common?
Oral papillomas are quite prevalent and affect a large number of dogs. One study found that up to 50% of healthy dogs had antibodies to the canine papillomavirus.
How are oral papillomas transmitted to dogs?
Oral papillomas are spread through dog-to-dog contact or by sharing dog toys that have been contaminated with the virus. Dogs acquire this disease usually between six months and two years of age, although some dogs can be as young as four months old when symptoms first develop. Papillomas will appear 4-6 weeks after exposure. When warts first appear, they tend to increase in size for several weeks. After this initial growth period, dog warts usually stabilize and start to shrink after six months or so. Dog warts can spread between dogs in the same household through direct contact such as when they eat from the same bowl, use the same dog toys, or groom one another. It is very unusual for older dogs to develop oral papillomas.
What do oral papillomas look like and what are the symptoms in dogs?
The symptoms of dog warts can vary depending on where the warts are located. They can range from small, raised bumps on the dog's skin to large cauliflower-like lesions with sizes up to 3cm. With oral papillomatosis, large clusters of dog warts are found in and around the oral cavity. Oral papillomatosis can cause discomfort, hypersalivation, and difficulty swallowing when warts are present in large numbers and sizes. In severe raises, oral papillomatosis can restrict airflow and breathing if warts develop near the back of the throat.
How are oral papillomas in dogs treated?
Fortunately, most cases of oral papillomas in dogs do not require any treatment. Spontaneous regression can take place 6-8 weeks after infection when the immune system matures. In cases of severe oral papillomatosis, where the dog is showing signs of discomfort and difficulty eating, surgical removal may be necessary.
The medical treatment for oral papillomas in dogs has not been extensively studied, and most of the studies overlook the fact that many papillomas spontaneously go away.
Frequently asked questions about oral papillomas in dogs
How long do oral papillomas last in dogs?
Spontaneous regression of oral papillomas occurs within 6-8 weeks.
Are dog warts contagious to people or other pets?
The canine papillomaviruses are species-specific, therefore transmission to cats and people do not occur. They are contagious to other dogs, however, especially young dogs with an immune system that is not yet fully mature.
What causes oral papilloma in dogs?
Dog warts are caused by the canine papillomavirus. There are no breeds or age groups that are at higher risk for developing dog warts.
Are oral papillomas in dogs dangerous?
Most oral papillomas are harmless and pose no significant health risk to dogs. However, if there are warts in large numbers and sizes, they can pose a health risk as they can impede breathing and swallowing.
Can I use Compound-W® for my dog's warts?
Compound-W® is not labeled for use in dogs, so consult your veterinarian before using it. Theoretically, it should work but the risk of creating more tissue trauma and injury is greater than the wart itself.
Oral papillomas in dogs are a common skin condition that is caused by the canine papillomavirus. These dog warts may look unsightly and uncomfortable, but most pose no serious health risks to your dog. However, it is important to seek veterinary care if you notice any growths or lesions on your pet's skin because some types of dog warts could indicate more serious health conditions. Dog warts are spread through dog-to-dog contact or by sharing dog toys that have been contaminated with the virus. Spontaneous regression of dog warts is expected and usually occurs within 6-8 weeks.