Signs of a paw problem
Cats rely on their paws for walking, climbing, scratching and grooming, so a sore foot can affect nearly everything they do. Signs that something may be wrong with a paw include:
- Limping, holding a paw up or walking on tiptoe
- Licking or chewing at one or more paws
- Redness, swelling or heat in a paw or between the toes
- Cuts, cracks, scabs or discharge
- Pads that look swollen, discolored, spongy or ulcerated
- Overgrown, split or bloody claws
- Reluctance to jump or to be touched on the feet
- A bad smell from the foot
Some of these overlap with the broader signs a cat is in pain, so look at your cat’s overall behavior too.
Common cat paw problems
Cuts, punctures and foreign objects
Cats can cut their pads on glass, sharp edges or rough surfaces, or get thorns, splinters or grass seeds embedded in the foot. Punctures can look small but trap bacteria and become infected. A cat with a bite wound on a paw from a fight may develop an abscess. Our guide to cleaning a cat wound explains what is reasonable to do for a minor cut.
Claw problems
Overgrown claws can curl into the pad, particularly in older or less active cats who wear their claws down less. This can cause pain and infection. Claws can also tear or split, causing bleeding and limping, and the nail bed can become infected. Regular checks and trimming help prevent problems; our guide to declawing alternatives includes nail-trimming tips. If a claw has grown into the pad, see a vet rather than attempting to remove it yourself.
Burns and chemical irritation
Hot surfaces such as stoves or radiators, hot pavement, de-icing salts and household cleaning products can burn or irritate paws. Cats also groom chemicals off their feet and can swallow them, so a paw that has touched a chemical needs prompt attention. Contact a vet or a pet poison hotline if you are worried.
Infections and abscesses
Bacterial or fungal infection can follow a cut, puncture or claw problem, or occur alongside skin disease. Signs include swelling, redness, pus, a bad smell, pain and fever. Infections usually need veterinary treatment.
Allergies and skin disease
Food or environmental allergies can cause itchy, inflamed paws, and constant licking can lead to secondary bacterial or yeast infections. Other skin problems can also affect the feet. Your vet can investigate the underlying cause, which may be ongoing.
Plasma cell pododermatitis (pillow foot)
Plasma cell pododermatitis, often called “pillow foot”, is a condition in which one or more paw pads become soft, swollen and spongy, sometimes with a purple or bluish tint, and may ulcerate and bleed. It is thought to be immune-mediated, and its cause is not fully understood. Some cats with it also have other conditions, so vets may recommend tests. Many cats have few signs, while others are sore or lame. Treatment decisions belong with your vet.
What to do for a sore between the toes
A reader’s common question is what to do about a wound between a cat’s toes. The area is hard to clean and keep dry, and infections here can develop quickly. A reasonable approach is:
- Look closely and gently, only if your cat tolerates it. Stop if your cat is in pain or aggressive.
- If the wound is small and shallow, rinse gently with sterile saline or clean lukewarm water, following the steps in our guide to cleaning a cat wound.
- Prevent licking, ideally with a cone.
- Call your vet if it is deep, swollen, oozing, smells, is a bite, or does not improve within a day or two.
Ointments and home remedies
Owners often ask whether they can put Neosporin or a similar ointment on a paw sore. Because cats lick their feet and swallow whatever is on them, it is safest to check with your vet before using any cream, ointment or home remedy, and to avoid hydrogen peroxide, alcohol and essential oils. Your vet can recommend a suitable treatment, and may suggest a protective boot or bandage if needed.
When to see a vet
Book a vet visit if you notice:
- Limping that lasts more than a day or two, or any limping with swelling
- A deep cut, puncture, bite or object stuck in the foot
- A claw growing into the pad or a torn claw that bleeds or looks infected
- Pus, a bad smell, spreading redness or fever
- Swollen, spongy or ulcerated pads
- Persistent licking or chewing
- Signs of a burn or chemical exposure, or your cat acting unwell
Ongoing limping is also covered in limping cat causes.
Routine paw checks and prevention
- Look at your cat’s paws regularly, including between the toes, and get her used to gentle handling.
- Keep claws trimmed to a comfortable length, especially for older cats.
- Keep litter boxes clean, as dirty litter can irritate feet.
- Store chemicals, cleaners and de-icing products out of reach and wipe paws after possible exposure.
- Be careful with hot surfaces.
- Keep outdoor-access cats up to date on veterinary checks, as fights can cause wounds.
Common questions
My cat has a wound between her toes. What should I do?
Gently rinse it with saline or clean water if it is small, prevent licking and call your vet if it is deep, swollen, oozing or not improving.
What is plasma cell pododermatitis in cats?
It is an uncommon condition causing swollen, soft paw pads, often called pillow foot. The cause is not fully understood and treatment should be directed by a vet.
Can I put Neosporin on a sore on my cat?
Ask your vet first. Cats lick their paws and can swallow ointment, and some products are not suitable for them.
Why is my cat licking her paws so much?
Causes include injury, a foreign object, allergies, infection, boredom or stress. If it is persistent or the paw looks sore, have it examined.