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Paws carry your pet through every walk, zoomie and stretch — yet they’re easy to overlook until something hurts. A short, regular check helps you spot small changes early and keeps those pads comfortable through every season.
The two-minute weekly check
Pick a calm moment, like after a walk or before bed, and make it part of your routine. Gentle handling from an early age makes it easier for both of you.
- Look at the pads. Check for dryness, cracks, small cuts or anything stuck between the toes.
- Spread the toes. Grass seeds, burrs and tiny stones love to hide here, especially for long-haired breeds.
- Check the nails. If you can hear clicking on hard floors, a trim is probably due. Cats’ claws should retract smoothly.
- Notice their reaction. Pulling away, licking one paw or limping can be a sign of discomfort worth watching.
Season by season
Summer: asphalt and sand can get hot enough to burn pads. If the pavement is too hot for the back of your hand, it’s too hot for paws — walk early or late, and choose grass when you can.
Winter: de-icing salt and cold can dry and irritate pads. Rinse and dry paws after walks, and keep the fur between pads trimmed so ice doesn’t build up.
Spring and autumn: grass seeds and burrs are at their peak. A quick look between the toes after outdoor time makes a real difference.
A paw check takes two minutes. Catching a small problem early can save weeks of discomfort.
Cleaning and caring for pads
- Wipe paws with lukewarm water and a soft cloth after muddy or salty walks, then dry well — especially between the toes.
- Use only pet-safe paw balms; products made for people may contain ingredients pets shouldn’t lick.
- Keep nails at a comfortable length. If you’re unsure how short to go, ask your vet or groomer to show you.
- Trim long fur around the pads to improve grip on smooth floors.
Signs of irritation to watch for
- Redness, swelling or a warm-feeling paw
- Constant licking or chewing at one foot
- Limping, or reluctance to walk on certain surfaces
- A cut that bleeds, a broken nail, or an unusual smell
When to call your vet: if limping lasts more than a day, a wound is deep or keeps bleeding, or there are signs of infection, contact your veterinarian. This guide is general information and isn’t a substitute for professional care.
Make it a habit with Pawify
Set a weekly grooming reminder for paw checks and nail trims, and add a quick note to your daily check-in if something looks off. Pawify’s AI scan also includes a guided paws step, so you can compare how things look over time.