Correct paw care for cats: Tips for healthy paws

Whether hunting, climbing or sneaking – cat paws are true wonders of nature. They give our cats their characteristic slinky nature and enable them to move silently and precisely. Affectionately referred to as toe beans, the pads of cat's paws feel soft and velvety, but are incredibly resistant and perfectly suited to carrying them safely through their lives.

Cat's paws are naturally suited to soft surfaces such as grass, forest floors or stone. In our modern environment, cats often traverse asphalt or come into contact with road salt or chemical residues. These stresses can strain and crack their sensitive pads. So it is all the more important to follow good paw care: it helps to keep the pads supple and to detect possible ailments at an early stage – for completely happy, agile paws.

Why is cat paw care so important?

Cats are true masters of personal care – they devote themselves extensively to cleaning their fur and keeping their paws clean. But sometimes even the cleanest kitties reach their limits and need support with paw care. Outdoor cats, older cats or cats with sensitive skin are particularly susceptible to minor injuries or irritated pads.

Running around in winter quickly becomes unpleasant for cats: Salt scattered on the ground as well as cold and frozen surfaces can dry out paw pads and lead to cracking. But dangers also lurk in the warmer months – sharp edges of fences, thorns or hot asphalt can irritate sensitive paws. Even at home, shards of broken glass or crockery can lead to painful cuts.

Cracked pads, small wounds or swollen paws are not only uncomfortable, but can develop into serious inflammation. By regularly checking your cat's paws, you can identify problems at an early stage and ensure they can always move around freely without pain.

Common issues: Injuries and dry pads

Dry and cracked paws. In winter, road salt and ice are a particular burden on cat paws. Salt draws out moisture from the skin, makes it brittle and increases the risk of small cracks through which bacteria can penetrate. But even hot asphalt surfaces or rough surfaces such as gravel and stone can put a strain on paws.

Minor injuries and inflammation. Outdoor cats often traverse rough terrain, where thorns, shards of glass or pointy stones can injure their sensitive pads. Splinters or foreign bodies that get caught between the toes can also lead to pain or infection.

Swollen paws. A swollen paw can have various causes -- from a bruise or an infection to an embedded foreign body or an inflamed claw. Observe whether the cat avoids putting pressure on the affected paw or has a limp. If the swelling lasts for a long time or your cat is in pain, you should take them to the vet at once.

Tips for proper claw care for cats

Cats’ claws are indispensable for climbing, hunting and defending themselves. So it's no wonder that cats take care of their claws on a regular basis. Cat trees and scratching boards are not only a popular pastime, but also important for trimming claws in a natural way. Older and indoor cats in particular need help with paw and claw care.

It's worth taking a regular look at their claws,as if they are too long they can make it difficult to walk and can dig painfully into their paw pads. It's time for a cut when you hear the claws hitting the ground when they walk, or their claws are curling up and digging into their pads.

You should use a special claw scissors to carefully cut their claws, and only at the transparent tip to avoid injury. If your cat does not like this, or it is too difficult, then a vet or animal groomer will help you cut them.

You can also try to remedy this with a craft activity. A homemade nail file box will have the side effect of your cat filing their own claws.Simply take a shoebox, cut out holes for their paws on the sides, and line the bottom with fine-grained sandpaper. Hide a few treats in the box – and the claw file will become a playful pleasure for your cat!

When do products for paw care make sense?

Health comes from within. A balanced diet provides the most important building blocks for supple paw pads and a strong skin barrier. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids play a particularly important role here. They not only support the regeneration of the skin, but can also strengthen the resistance of the paws.

Salmon and salmon oil are real superfoods for cats: they are full of healthy fatty acids that not only make their coats shiny, but also support the cardiovascular system. A small extra boost from high-quality salmon oil can ensure smooth paws and a healthy skin barrier.

If your cat's paws need some extra care, natural creams or balms can help to keep their pads supple and protect their skin. It is important that the products are non-toxic and natural – after all, your cat will clean their paws again sooner or later.

In order for the treatment to work, the balm needs to be absorbed quickly. It is best to apply care products during a relaxed cuddle or while they are asleep, so that the product stays put and does not end up on the floor. Proven products are Bepanthen ointment, Bag Balm or organic honey ointments – these moisturise and support the natural regeneration of the skin.

Home remedies for paw and pad care

Special care products are not always necessary – often simple home remedies also help to gently treat irritated cat paws.

Coconut oil: naturally antibacterial, moisturises and protects against inflammation. Massage the paw pads with a small amount of oil.
Olive oil: a drop massaged into the pads keeps the skin supple.

When should you go to the vet?

While minor ailments can often be alleviated with gentle care, there are situations where a visit to the vet is necessary:

Severe swelling or prolonged limping
Open wounds or bleeding cracks
Redness or pus-filled inflammation
Foreign bodies in the paw that cannot be removed

Cats use their paws daily, so they deserve special attention. With simple routines and gentle care, many problems can be prevented early on. If you watch your cat closely and respond lovingly to their needs, you can do a lot to keep their sensitive paws and toe beans healthy and supple. This ensures that your cat can enjoy their life to the fullest.