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Cracked Paw Pads and Other Cat Foot Problems Explained

Cracked Paw Pads and Other Cat Foot Problems Explained

Updated On September 7th, 2017

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Reviewed By Lauren Jones VMD

Paw pads are tough, thickened layers of fat and tissue that cover the bottom of the foot and help to provide shock absorption, balance, and traction for cats.

Cats are generally fairly stoic animals and are known for hiding signs of pain and discomfort, so noticing mild changes in the paw pads can be difficult. Limping, excessive licking or swelling of the foot may be some of the first signs that something is amiss. Despite the generally tough nature of these paw pads, they are not indestructible and can be damaged.

Cracked and Sloughed Paw Pads

Fortunately, injury to cats paw pads is not highly a common occurrence since most cats are kept indoors and not exposed to extreme elements or rough surfaces. However, paw pads can become cracked or experience sloughing of the skin as a result of a variety of underlying issues, including thermal or chemical burns.

Contact irritation from rough surfaces, high dust producing litter, or heavily perfumed litters, such as those marketed for odor control or multi-cat households, can also lead to problems with the paw pads. Allergic conditions, such as environmental allergies (otherwise known as atopy) or food allergies can also be associated with paw pad changes.

Although not overly common, underlying immune-mediated health conditions, such as plasma cell pododermatitis, or even cancerous processes can all lead to cracks in the paw pads or sloughing of the skin.

Ingrown Toenails in Cats

One of the most common foot problems in cats is the presence of ingrown toenails. Under normal circumstances, a cats toenails will grow in a circular fashion such that the nail will grow into the paw pad under the toe if left unattended.

This condition can be extremely painful, and can lead to the onset of infection and inflammation within the paw pad. Regular [nail trims](http://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-trim-your-cats-nails-at-home/) are critical to preventing ingrown toenails.

Cats with Extra Toes

The average cat will have 10 toes on the front feet (4 weight-bearing digits and 1 dewclaw on each foot), and 8 toes on the rear feet. Some cats, however, may have 12, 13, 14, or more toes! Extra toes are found through an inherited condition known as polydactyly. This condition rarely causes any problems, except that the extra digits are often close together and are more prone to developing ingrown toenails. Regular nail trims will help prevent problems.

Fun fact: Polydactyly cats are sometimes referred to as Hemingway cats since Ernest Hemingway had a colony of these cats in Key West.

Common Cat Foot Problems

Some of the more common signs of paw pad or foot problems include [limping](http://www.petcoach.co/article/why-is-my-cat-limping/) (which can be subtle), excessive licking of the affected foot, bleeding, hair loss on the foot, or redness of the skin on the foot or between paw pads. If problems are noted, a trip to the vet is in order to evaluate your cats feet.

Preventing Foot Problems in Cats

Regular nail trims every 2-4 weeks and maintaining a healthy body weight for your cat are the most important steps to take with respect to preventing foot problems. Also, keep in mind that overweight or obese cats will place additional stress and strain on the feet, making them more susceptible to foot injuries.

During the nail trims, take a close look at all aspects of your cats foot to monitor it for changes. For cats that spend time outside, avoid letting them outside during extreme temperatures since both extremely hot and cold temperatures can lead to injury and damage of the paw pads.

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