The importance of pet paw health

As pet owners, we often focus on our pet’s diet, exercise, and grooming, but one aspect that can be frequently overlooked is paw health.

Your pet’s paws play a vital role in their daily life, and keeping them healthy is essential for their comfort, mobility, and overall wellbeing.

Your pet’s paws aid mobility, balance and play

Paws support every step your pet takes, whether they are playing, walking or jumping. Maintaining pet paw health enables them to absorb shock, maintain balance and navigate various surfaces. An injury or discomfort to your pet’s paws can limit their movement, daily activities and as a result cause restlessness and anxiety.

Common paw problems

Paw are exposed to lots of different terrains, temperatures, debris, and rough surfaces which can lead to cracked pads, cuts and infections which can quickly escalate if left untreated.  It’s important to check your pet’s paw pads regularly to ensure they are healthy.

Common symptoms of paw issues include:

• Licking and chewing the affected paw(s)
• Lameness or limping
• Red and inflamed paws
• Lesions and discharge
• Hair loss
• Ulcers with scabbing and blisters
• Cuts, abrasions, and tears
• Cracked and torn nails
• Dry/cracked pads
• Loose flaps of skin on paw pads
• Refusal to walk or bear weight on paw(s)
• Cysts and growths
• Bleeding
• Foul smell coming from paw

If your pet is displaying any of the above symptoms, it is best to contact your vet who can take a closer look, suggest the correct treatment and see if there are any underlying health concerns.

The importance of maintaining pet paw health

If your pet develops cracked, infected, or sore paws, it can lead to severe health issues if left untreated. Your pet may start limping, avoiding activity or even display behavioural changes due to the pain.

Regular paw care such as inspecting the pads for cuts, trimming nails, moisturising dry paws with a paw balm and washing them after walks, can prevent many issues.

Paying close attention to your pet’s paws and providing regular checks and care using a paw balm can keep them healthy and help to keep your pet happy and active!