Nail the Details: Preventing & Treating Paw & Nail Issues

Our pets rely on their paws and nails for much more than just mobility—these areas are crucial for their overall health and comfort. Unfortunately, paw and nail problems are among the most common yet often overlooked health issues in pets. From dry, cracked paw pads to overgrown nails, these conditions can lead to discomfort and infections and even affect their ability to walk. Understanding the causes, signs, and importance of maintaining paw and nail health is essential to ensuring your furry friend stays happy and active.

Paw and nail problems can develop for several reasons. In this section, we’ll dive into common issues, how they arise, and why keeping your pet's paws and nails in good shape is essential for their overall well-being.

Your pet’s paws are tough but not invincible. Whether it’s from harsh weather conditions, rough terrain, or accidental injuries, paw problems can quickly become painful for your pet. In this section, we’ll explore four of the most common paw issues: cracked or dry paw pads, cuts and injuries, burns and blisters, and infections. Most of these issues are caused by Pododermatitis (usually allergy-based), grass seed foreign bodies, and torn nails.  Understanding the causes, identifying symptoms early, and knowing how to treat them can help prevent minor issues from turning into bigger problems.

Cracked or Dry Paw Pads

Causes: Cracked or dry paw pads are often caused by environmental factors. Walking on hot pavement in the summer or icy sidewalks in the winter can quickly dry out and damage your pet's paw pads. Additionally, dry air or exposure to harsh chemicals, like road salt or cleaning agents, can contribute to this issue. Dogs and cats with naturally sensitive skin or those that frequently run on rough surfaces may be more prone to developing cracks.

Identification: If you notice your dog or cat licking their paws more than usual, limping, or showing signs of discomfort while walking, it could be due to cracked paw pads. Visible cracks, peeling skin, or bleeding are clear indicators that their paws need attention. The pads may also feel rough and dry to the touch.

Treatment: To treat cracked paw pads, start by gently cleaning the area with warm water to remove dirt or debris. Applying a pet-safe paw balm or moisturiser can help rehydrate and soothe the damaged pads. For more severe cracks, especially if bleeding is present, consult your vet. Prevention is key—try using booties during extreme weather and regularly applying paw balm to maintain hydration.

Burns and Blisters

Causes: Hot pavement, sand, or even metal surfaces can cause burns or blisters on your pet’s paw pads, especially during the summer months. Similarly, exposure to freezing temperatures or harsh chemicals like de-icing salts can result in blisters or burns.

Identification: Burns and blisters typically cause immediate discomfort. You may notice your pet limping, so avoid putting weight on the affected paw or licking it frequently. Upon inspection, you might see red, raw, or swollen paw pads, sometimes with visible blisters.

Treatment: If your pet’s paws are burned or blistered, immediately move them to a cooler surface and rinse their paws with cool water. Applying a pet-safe soothing ointment can help relieve discomfort and promote healing. Avoid allowing your pet to lick or chew the area, as this can worsen the injury. For severe burns, or if blisters burst, it’s crucial to visit your vet for further treatment. Prevention includes walking your pet during cooler parts of the day and using protective booties in hot or cold environments.

Cuts and Injuries

Causes: Paws are constantly exposed to potential hazards, such as sharp rocks, glass, or thorns, which can easily cause cuts and injuries. Pets that love running and exploring, especially in rough or unfamiliar terrain, are at a higher risk of injuring their paws.

Identification: You may notice your pet limping, favouring one paw, or licking the injured area persistently. Upon inspection, you might see cuts, abrasions, or puncture wounds. In some cases, there could be swelling or bleeding, which are clear signs that a paw injury has occurred.

Treatment: For minor cuts, clean the wound gently with warm water and apply a pet-safe antiseptic. Cover the area with a bandage or protective wrap to prevent further injury or infection. If the cut is deep, continues to bleed, or your pet seems to be in significant pain, it’s essential to see a vet. Keeping your pet’s nails trimmed and avoiding rough, unfamiliar terrain can help reduce the likelihood of paw injuries.

Infections

Causes: Paw infections can occur due to untreated cuts, punctures, or burns. Bacteria, fungi, or even parasites can invade broken skin, leading to painful infections. Dogs and Cats with allergies or those who lick or chew their paws excessively are also more prone to infections, as constant moisture creates a breeding ground for bacteria.

Identification: Signs of a paw infection include redness, swelling, foul odour, or discharge coming from the paw. Your pet may also limp, chew at the infected area, or show reluctance to walk. In some cases, the infection may cause a fever or other signs of illness.

Treatment: If you suspect your pet has a paw infection, it’s important to seek veterinary care promptly. Your vet may clean the wound, prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medication, and provide you with guidance on keeping the paw clean and dry during the healing process. Preventing infections starts with treating even minor paw injuries properly and ensuring your pet’s paws are always clean and dry after walks or outdoor play.

While often overlooked, your pet’s nails play a vital role in their mobility and overall comfort. Nail problems, such as overgrown, broken, split, or ingrown nails, can cause pain and affect your pet’s ability to walk properly. Infections in the nail area can further complicate these issues. In this section, we’ll explore these common nail problems, their causes, how to identify them, and the best ways to treat and prevent them.

Overgrown Nails

Causes: Overgrown nails are a common problem, especially in dogs and cats that don’t get regular nail trims or enough exercise to wear their nails down naturally. Pets that spend most of their time on soft surfaces, such as grass or carpet, are less likely to file down their nails compared to pets that frequently walk on harder surfaces like pavement. Cats tend to suffer from overgrown nails more than dogs, specifically older cats. So, take extra care in checking their nails regularly because if infections occur, they can require long courses of antibiotics.

Identification: If your pet’s nails are long enough to touch the ground or you hear a distinct clicking noise as they walk on hard surfaces, it’s a sign that their nails are overgrown. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort, making it difficult for your pet to walk or stand properly. In severe cases, long nails can curl into the paw pads, causing significant pain and even infections.

Treatment: The best way to manage overgrown nails is with regular trimming. Using pet-specific nail clippers, trim a small portion of the nail at a time, being careful to avoid the quick (the sensitive area inside the nail) that can bleed if cut. If you’re unsure how to safely trim your pet’s nails, consider visiting a professional groomer or your vet for assistance. Regular trimming every 2-4 weeks is typically enough to keep your pet’s nails at a healthy length.

Broken or Split Nails

Causes: Nails can break or split due to trauma, such as snagging on carpets, getting caught in rough terrain, or excessive pressure during play. Weak or brittle nails may also be more prone to breaking, which can result from poor diet, lack of grooming, or underlying health issues. Dogs are more likely to suffer from torn nails, which require surgical removal.

Identification: You may notice your pet limping, licking at their paw, or avoiding putting weight on a particular leg. Upon close inspection, a broken or split nail will likely be visible. Depending on the severity, there may also be bleeding or signs of discomfort when the nail is touched. 

Treatment: For minor breaks, trim the affected part of the nail to prevent further splitting, and clean the area with a mild antiseptic to prevent infection. If the break is deep or if the nail has split into the quick, it’s best to seek veterinary care, as your pet may require pain relief or antibiotics. In some cases, the damaged portion of the nail may need to be removed entirely. To prevent future breaks, keep your pet’s nails trimmed regularly and avoid letting them play in areas with rough or sharp objects.

Taking care of your pet’s paws and nails is essential for their overall health and well-being. Neglecting paw and nail care can lead to discomfort, injuries, or infections. Below are some best practices to ensure your pet’s paws and nails stay in top condition year-round.

1. Regular Nail Trimming: Keep your pet’s nails at an appropriate length to prevent overgrowth, ingrown nails, or breaks. For dogs, this means trimming every 2-4 weeks, and for cats, their nails should be trimmed as needed, usually every few weeks.
2. Keep Paw Pads Moisturised: Use a pet-safe paw balm or moisturiser to keep paw pads soft and hydrated, especially in extreme weather conditions. Dry, cracked paw pads can cause discomfort and lead to infections.
3. Check for Injuries After Walks: Inspect your dog or cat’s paws regularly after outdoor activities to check for cuts, splinters, or other injuries. Cats and dogs are curious by nature, and they can easily step on sharp objects or irritants.
4. Protect Paws from Harsh Surfaces: Avoid walking your dog on hot pavement in summer or salty, icy streets in winter. Use protective booties if necessary, and always rinse off their paws after exposure to harsh chemicals or debris.
5. Routine Paw Inspections: Regularly inspect your pet’s paws and nails for signs of infections, redness, or swelling. Catching problems early ensures quicker treatment and keeps your pet comfortable.

We all want the best for our furry companions, and the health of your pet's paws and nails plays a vital role in their overall well-being. By recognising the signs of common paw and nail issues, taking preventive measures, and knowing when to seek professional advice, you can ensure that your pet remains active, comfortable, and pain-free. With regular care and attention, you'll keep their paws in top condition and support their happy, healthy lifestyle.

This article was written by Dr Jane Miller