A happy pet is on the move while running, playing, and exploring. When those busy paws become the source of constant licking, chewing, or biting, it can bring their adventures to a halt. Persistent paw irritation is often a signal that something is wrong with your animal companion. Addressing paw problems quickly with a veterinarian like Heritage Animal Clinic relieves discomfort as well as prevents small issues from turning into big ones.

What Are Possible Causes of Itchy Paws?

Your pet’s paws are in constant contact with the world: grass, pavement, dirt, puddles, floors, and more. This exposure means they’re often the first place to pick up allergens, irritants, or injuries. Some pets lick or chew their paws to soothe the itch, while others do it because they’re experiencing pain or inflammation. Unfortunately, the more they fuss over their feet, the more damaged the skin becomes, creating a cycle that’s hard to break without professional assistance.

Several factors can lead to itchy or inflamed paws:

• Allergies: Pollen, mold spores, or grass allergens can cling to the fur and skin between the toes or simply cause paws to itch.
• Chemical Irritants: Road salt, lawn treatments, or household cleaners may cause stinging or redness.
• Skin Infections: Yeast or bacteria thrive in the warm, moist spaces between paw pads, especially if a pet licks excessively.
• Parasites: Fleas, mites, and ticks may hide around the feet, biting and causing irritation.
• Foreign Objects: Small pebbles, thorns, or burrs can become lodged between the toes, triggering constant chewing.

Pet owners should pay attention to behaviors like persistent licking, paw chewing, limping, or reluctance to walk on certain surfaces. Physical signs include redness, swelling, hair loss between the toes, or an unpleasant odor. If these symptoms appear and last more than a couple of days, a veterinary exam is the best next step.

Diagnosing Paw Issues in Pets

A veterinarian can perform a thorough paw inspection, checking for signs of injury, infection, or foreign material. If needed, a skin cytology can be run to identify yeast or bacterial overgrowth or a microscopic exam for parasites. Identifying the true cause of the irritation will be the first step towards bringing your pet relief.

Treatment for itchy paws varies depending on the cause. Infections may require medicated soaks or prescription ointments, while allergies might be managed with anti-itch medications or changes in environment or food. For pets with dry, cracked pads, a veterinary-approved moisturizer can restore skin health. You can talk to your vet about when to use protective booties, which can shield paws from harsh surfaces or chemicals.

Treating Paw Issues for Pets in Madison, AL

Itchy, irritated paws can take the joy out of playtime for pets. Heritage Animal Clinic treats itchy, irritated pet paws in Madison and for cats and dogs from neighboring communities like Huntsville and Athens. If your pet can’t stop chewing or licking their paws, let us help. Contact us to schedule a veterinary appointment.