Cat Paw Pads Explained
A cat’s paw pads cushion, grip and sense. Here are the four kinds on a front paw, and a few tips for keeping them healthy.
The text version
- Toe pads
- Four pads, one under each main toe, cushion each step.
- Main pad
- The big, three-lobed pad in the middle takes most of the weight and helps with grip.
- Dewclaw pad
- A small thumb-like pad higher up the leg, used to grip prey and climb.
- Carpal pad
- The small pad at the back of the front leg, a brake for sudden stops and landings.
Questions people ask
Why do cats have pink paw pads?
Pad colour depends on the cat’s coat and genes. Pink, black and spotted pads are all normal.
How many toes does a cat have?
Usually 18: five on each front paw and four on each back paw. Some cats have extra toes, called polydactyl.
What should I do if my cat’s paw pads are cracked or sore?
Check for anything stuck in the pad, and ask your vet if it is red, swollen, bleeding or they are limping.
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