Cat Paws: Anatomy, Care, and Protection Tips

Did you know your cute, cuddly kitty is one of nature’s most exquisitely designed predators? It’s true; today’s domesticated cats have more in common with their wild African ancestors than you’d think. While your cat no longer has to stalk the savanna for their supper, their ninja-like stealth persists. And that’s largely thanks to the most phenomenal of feline features: cat paws.

Believe it or not, there’s more to feline paws than adorable “cat toe beans.” Healthy cat paws are essential for a cat’s overall well-being and serve a variety of important functions.

To help keep cat paws healthy, it’s important to understand what’s normal, how to recognize problems, and what to do about them. So get ready to dig in and uncover what every cat parent needs to know about feline feet and cat paw care.

What Are Cat Paws Made of?

Just like human hands, cat paws are complex and highly capable. The musculoskeletal structure features a network of small bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Your cat’s paws also contain specialized skin, connective tissue, nerves, blood vessels, sweat glands, and scent glands.

All this comes wrapped in a soft, furry exterior (unless you have a Sphynx or other hairless cat breed). Add claws and paw pads, and you have the cat paw.

These agile, sophisticated appendages enable cats to hunt, run, climb, jump, and land with ease. Cat paws also help cats groom and defend themselves, sense their environment, and communicate using pheromones. 

Cat Paw Anatomy

Cats are digitigrade animals, meaning they walk on their toes (also called digits). This setup helps cats move speedily and silently. 

Most cats have 18 digits — five on each front paw and four on each hind paw. Nearly all of these toes are weight-bearing and feature retractable claws used for hunting, self-defense, climbing, and traction.

However, two of these toes are not like the others. Cats have a special digit on the inside of both front paws called the dewclaw. This toe doesn’t contact the ground, so it doesn’t support a cat’s weight. It also has a non-retractable claw used for climbing and gripping prey.

Cat claws are hooked, translucent white, and made of keratin, the same protein comprising our nails. Protected by this hard outer layer is a small, sensitive pink structure, called the quick. It contains blood vessels and nerves to support healthy cat claws.

Your cat’s claws grow continuously and shed naturally with use. You may find a claw sheath or “husk” in your home from time to time. But don’t be alarmed; shedding the outer, older layer is a normal process for healthy claws.   

Paw pads, commonly dubbed “toe beans,” are a favorite feline feature for many cat lovers. But in addition to their adorable appearance, they also serve many vital functions. 

There are three main types of cat paw pads:

• Digital pads – These are the jellybean-shaped pads at the base of each toe (or digit).
• Central pads – These are the large, central pads just behind the digital pads. On the front paws, they’re called metacarpal pads, and on the hind paws, they’re called metatarsal pads.
• Carpal pads – These pea-shaped pads are located further back on your cat’s forelimbs, toward the outer side of the paw.

Your cat’s paw pads contain a complex array of blood vessels, nerve endings, fat, and connective tissue. A specialized layer of tough-but-sensitive, hairless skin protects them.

Together, these strong, soft, and sensitive pads work as a cushion to support a cat’s weight and absorb the shock of their acrobatic maneuvers. The pads also have pheromone glands to mark territory and communicate with other cats. 

Types of Cat Paws

Paw Pad Colors

Paw pads come in a variety of colors, including shades of pink, gray, lavender, and black. Cats can have multicolored or spotted paw pads. Much like hair and eye color in humans, coat color and paw color can be linked.

Paw Pad Shapes

The shape of the central paw pad has become somewhat of an internet sensation. However, the practice of kitty “pawmestry” (decoding a cat’s behavior based on their pad shape), isn’t real.

Sure, it can be fun to figure out whether your cat’s pad looks more like a heart, mountain, or rocket. But, keep in mind that reading your cat’s paw is an amusement, not an accurate predictor of anything.

Polydactyl Cat Paws

Sometimes called a doubled paw cat, polydactyl cats are born with extra digits. This genetic trait can occur in any cat breed, but it’s especially common in Maine Coons and Pixiebobs.  

Polydactyl cats typically fall into one of two categories based on the length and placement of their extra toes.

Extra digits are typically preaxial (found on the “thumb” side of the paw) or postaxial (found on the “pinky” side). Though it’s less common, they can also be mesoaxial (found in the middle). 

Usually, polydactyly doesn’t cause problems and can even enhance a cat’s grip and climbing abilities. However, the extra digits can be more prone to injury and ingrown claws. 

Healthy Cat Paws Vs. Unhealthy Cat Paws

It’s important to check your cat’s paws regularly to ensure they’re healthy and working properly. Start handling your cat’s paws when they’re young so you understand their normal appearance, size, texture, color, and temperature. Paws are sensitive, and some cats don’t like their feet touched, so be patient and gentle. 

Swelling, wounds, discharge, odor, redness, deep cracks, crusting, and fur loss are abnormal. Paws shouldn’t feel excessively hot (a potential sign of inflammation) or cold (a potential sign of poor circulation). Other than the dewclaw, your cat’s claws should retract when not in use. A claw that remains extended may indicate a problem.  

Cats are sometimes secretive when it comes to showing signs of pain. Look for subtle signs of cat paw pain and discomfort, such as:

• Limping
• Holding a paw up
• Excessive licking and chewing of paws 

Pet parents can often treat simple problems — like a scraped paw pad or something stuck in a cat’s paw fur — at home. However, many common paw problems require a trip to the veterinarian for a full exam, diagnosis, and treatment plan.   

Common Cat Paw Problems

1. Ingrown Claws

This is one of the most common cat paw problems. If a cat’s claw doesn’t shed naturally, it can grow into the paw pad. This can cause significant lameness, pain, and infection, requiring immediate veterinary care.

Any cat can develop an ingrown claw, however some may be more prone to the issue than others. Ingrown claws are common in older, less active cats; cats with mobility issues; polydactyl cats; and cats with other paw diseases. 

2. Plasma Cell Pododermatitis (Pillow Foot)

Plasma Cell Pododermatitis, commonly called pillow foot in cats, is an autoimmune condition affecting cats’ paw pads. In autoimmune conditions, a cat’s immune system mistakenly attacks normal body cells instead of harmful invaders.

In cats with pillow foot, plasma cells (immune system cells) behave abnormally, creating significant paw pad inflammation. Affected cats develop characteristic swollen, pillowy paw pads, hence the name pillow foot. Paw pads may be painful, turn purple, develop scaly, white lines, and break into open sores. 

3. Pemphigus Foliaceus 

Pemphigus Foliaceus (PF) is another autoimmune condition, this time affecting the skin. In cats with PF, their immune system antibodies misbehave and attack the “glue” that helps maintain skin integrity.

Cats with PF develop scabs and sores mainly around their face and feet. In some cases, the paw pads and claw folds become crusty with thick pus draining from the claw folds. 

4. Cat Paw Injuries and Infections

Both indoors and outside, there are many environmental hazards that can injure cat paws.

Cats can suffer paw injuries ranging from broken bones and sprains to muscle strains. Though tough, their skin and paw pads can get cut and infected. Cat paws can also show signs of allergic reaction to environmental allergens.

Outside, curious paws can find their way into sticky situations. Outdoor hazards that could threaten cat paws include:

• insect and snake bites
• wounds from cat fights
• burns from hot pavement
• embedded foreign objects
• getting caught in animal traps
• frostbite

Indoor-only cats aren’t off the hook, either. Homefront hazards to cat paws include:

• broken glass
• stovetop or candle burns
• falling from balconies
• getting stepped on or crushed by people’s feet 

5. Cancer

Feline cancer can occur in any part of the body, including cat paws. In cats, cancer affecting the toes is much less common than it is in dogs, but it does occur. 

One of the most common cancers affecting cat paws is digital soft tissue sarcoma, which starts in the soft tissue of a cat’s toes. A condition unique to cats, called feline lung-digit syndrome, begins as a lung tumor and spreads to the toes. The toe tumors usually become visible before lung cancer signs are apparent. 

In the early stages, cancer in the paws may look subtle. So any persistent paw issues, especially those in older cats, should be investigated by your veterinarian.  

6. Post Declaw Pain Syndrome

Declawing cats is a major (and controversial) surgery that involves amputating the first bone of each toe. Cats require aggressive pain management, and even then, recovery can be painful.  

Declawed cats can develop painful complications such as:

• bony fragments and claw regrowth at the amputation sites
• osteoarthritis
• chronic neuropathic pain (similar to human amputees who experience phantom limb pain)

Because of the significant welfare issues associated with routine declawing, many professional veterinary associations discourage it. The practice is also banned in several countries. 

How to Groom and Clean Your Cat’s Paws

Cats are expert groomers, adept in keeping their hard-working paws in tip-top shape. However, cats can benefit from extra paw care.  

To get your cat used to paw handling, gently massage their paws regularly. Keep sessions short and positive, use treats and praise, and stop before your cat becomes annoyed. 

Ways to care for your cat’s paws:

• Some cats sport toe tufts (extra long hairs between their toes), which can accumulate debris and may be prone to matting. If this is a problem for your cat, you can trim their toe tufts to the level of the rest of their fur.
• Ticks like to burrow in between toes, so if your cat goes outside, check for these pesky pests. And even indoor cats are at risk for some species of ticks. So make sure your cat is on a year-long preventative medication.
• You may need to trim your cat’s claws every few weeks to prevent damage. To do so: Reveal each claw by gently pressing on the top of the toe. Use sharp cat claw trimmers and trim only the tips. Trimming too far back could cut the sensitive quick, causing pain and bleeding. If unsure, ask your veterinary team or experienced groomer to do it. 
• While your cat works hard to keep their feet clean, if they’ve gotten into something dirty, smelly, irritating, greasy, or sticky, they’ll need help.

For maintenance and minor clean-ups use a wet washcloth to gently wipe all around their feet, especially between their toes and paw pads.

For heavily soiled feet, a foot bath may be in order. Yes, I know, b-a-t-h is a four-letter word many cats abhor. However, I’ve found that many cats tolerate this easy method.

Add warm water and cat-safe shampoo to a disposable glove, then place the glove around your cat’s foot. Hold it secure with one hand and gently bathe your cat’s paw through the glove with the other. 

How to Protect Your Cat’s Paws Year Round

While cats seem to have endless superpowers, and their tootsies are tough, they are not immune to the elements.  

Frostbite can affect the extremities and pose a danger to cats. It’s best to keep outdoor cats inside, or provide a warm and dry shelter, when temperatures dip below freezing. 

During hot weather, outdoor cats usually find a shady, cool spot to rest; however, hot surfaces like pavement and sand can burn cat paws. If it’s too hot for your foot to touch comfortably, it’s too hot for cat paws. If you live in a hot climate, keep your cat inside during the hottest times of the day. 

If your cat is prone to dry paw pads, you can use a cat-safe paw balm or unrefined coconut oil as a moisturizer. Cats lick everything off their paws, and some ingredients may be toxic to cats. So ask your veterinarian to recommend an appropriate balm.

Remember, paw balm is intended for mild cases of paw dryness. Always consult your vet for guidance if your cat experiences extreme dryness or complex paw issues. 

Protective cat booties are another option to consider. However, since paws are so vital to a cat’s safety, stability, and well-being, they may do more harm than good.

Cat Paws FAQ

Why do Cats Lick Their Paws?

Cats lick their paws as part of their extensive grooming ritual. They may also lick if a substance is on their paw, or if they have paw discomfort.

Why do Cats Push Their Paws?

Kneading, or as some say, “making biscuits,” is a cat’s way of making themselves feel comfortable and relaxed. It’s an instinctual behavior left over from kittenhood, when kneading while nursing helped stimulate milk flow.

Cats usually knead soft blankets or bedding as they prepare for a snooze. Sometimes they’ll even knead a pet or person they’re partial to. (If so, lucky you!) 

What Causes Cracked Paws on Cats?

Cats’ feet are often exposed to temperature extremes, rough terrain, and irritants — especially outdoors. Cracked paws may be due to environmental conditions. Or they may indicate an underlying paw condition, such as pillow paw. 

Do Cats Sweat Through Their Paws?

Yes, cats sweat through sweat glands in their paw pads called eccrine glands. However, these don’t play much of a role in cooling. Rather, cats benefit from the cooling effect of saliva evaporating off their skin when grooming. 

Does my Cat Need a Scratching Pad?

Scratching is an important part of feline behavior and vital for claw health. Providing cats with places to scratch supports this essential instinct. It also gives cats an alternative to unwanted scratching, such as on furniture. Ideally, you should have at least one scratching pad for every cat in your home, even if your cats go outdoors.