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My chihuahua has red skin, paw bump, and swollen nipple. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My chihuahua's body is very red/purplish all over. It's been like this for a while, but my family always figured it was bed sores because she doesn't really get exercise. i'm starting to get worried now because it's getting worse. she has a large bump on her paw, and one of her nipples seems overly sized. is she okay?? my family has a budget, and we can't afford to take her to the vet.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 2nd, 2017

Your Chihuahua has to see a vet as soon as possible. It is not normal that her body is red/purplish all over, and it could be that she is experiencing bleeding under the skin due to a bleeding or clot disorder. In addition, if she isn't spayed, her oversized nipple could be due to a mammary tumor. The large bump on her paw could be due to a cyst, benign tumor, or malignant tumor. I'm very concerned that her body is red/purplish and is getting worse, and she has to see a vet now. If paying for a vet is an issue, you can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website.
http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962
https://www.redrover.org
https://www.carecredit.com
http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets
Please take her into a vet as soon as possible.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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