Introduction
Winterizing a cat’s paws refers to taking steps to protect a cat’s paw pads and nails from the cold, dry weather during winter months. This is important because cats can easily get frostbite or cracked paw pads when walking on snow and cold surfaces. Additionally, winter air tends to be dry which can lead to irritated, itchy paws. Taking some simple precautions can help keep your cat’s paws healthy and comfortable during the winter.
The main things to focus on when winterizing a cat’s paws are: moisturizing paw pads to prevent cracking, trimming nails, inspecting paws regularly, keeping paws clean, preventing excessive licking/chewing of paws, monitoring time spent outside, and providing paw-friendly surfaces indoors. This article will overview each of these key steps to winterizing a cat’s paws.
Protect Against Cold
Cats’ paws are susceptible to the cold winter weather. According to Catexplorer, a cat’s paws can be particularly affected when walking in snow or on icy surfaces treated with salt or antifreeze chemicals. The cold can damage the pads and skin on a cat’s paws.
To protect your cat’s paws from the dangers of cold weather, it’s important to limit their time outside when temperatures drop. If they do go outside, booties can help shield their paws from snow and ice. There are many bootie options available for purchase to fit your cat’s paws. You can also apply paw wax or balm before they head out to moisturize pads and protect against irritants.
Monitoring the outdoor temperature and restricting time outside when very cold is key to keeping your cat’s paws safe. According to The Honest Kitchen, temperatures can quickly drop at night, so late evenings outside should be avoided.
Providing paw-friendly surfaces indoors is also important. Plush cat beds give irritated paws a comfortable place to rest and recover. You can even use paw-warming mats to soothe cold paws after time spent outdoors.
Moisturize Paws
It is important to moisturize your cat’s paws during winter to prevent cracking and drying caused by cold temperatures and dry indoor air. Cracked paws are painful and can allow bacteria to enter, leading to infections. Massaging moisturizing balms or oils into your cat’s paw pads and fur helps maintain suppleness and comfort.
Look for paw balms and oils made specifically for pets that contain natural moisturizers like shea butter, coconut oil, olive oil, and oatmeal. Avoid products with toxic ingredients. Apply balm generously to paws, rubbing between toes and pads. Do this daily if your cat will tolerate it. For cats that resist handling, apply balm whenever you can such as before bedtime.[1]
You can also use pet-safe moisturizers you have around the house like coconut oil or olive oil. Rub a small amount over paw pads and fur, taking care not to make paws greasy. Wipe off any excess after massaging in.[2]
Trim Nails
Regular nail trims are recommended during winter to prevent snags and tears on rough surfaces. Use a scissor or clipper style nail trimmer designed specifically for cats. Always trim just the sharp tip of the nail, taking care not to cut into the pink quick inside the nail, as this will be painful and cause bleeding. Only trim a small amount at a time. It may help to trim your cat’s nails while they are relaxed or even sleeping.
If your cat strongly objects to having their nails trimmed, you can try alternatives like scratching posts, scratching pads, or nail caps to blunt the sharp points. But keeping nails trimmed is ideal to prevent issues. Be patient, offer treats, and make it a positive experience for your cat. With time, regular trims should become easier for both of you.
Inspect Paws
It’s important to regularly inspect your cat’s paws, especially after being outside. Cold weather and rough or icy surfaces can lead to injuries. Check for any cuts, abrasions, irritation, swelling, discoloration, or foreign objects stuck in the paws. Signs of injury include limping, licking the paws excessively, swollen pads, or sensitivity to touch. Carefully spread your cat’s toes and look in between them as well. If you notice any issues, contact your veterinarian. Inspecting paws routinely can help catch problems early before they become infected or painful.
According to The Honest Kitchen, “After time outside, be sure to inspect her paws for ice build-up between her pads and toes that could lead to frostbite. Also check for rock-salt, chemical ice-melters or antifreeze that could irritate her paws. Rinse her paws in warm (not hot!) water to gently wash away anything that shouldn’t be there.”
Clean Paws
It’s important to clean your cat’s paws after they’ve been outside, especially in the winter. Road salt, ice melters, antifreeze, and other chemicals can get lodged between your cat’s toes and pads and cause irritation or poisoning if ingested during grooming.
Gently wipe down your cat’s paws with a warm, damp washcloth when they come inside. Be sure to get between the toes and pads. Avoid using chemical cleaners, which could further irritate their skin. Plain water is best. You can follow up with a cat-safe moisturizer.
Trimming the fur between your cat’s toes can also help keep their paws cleaner. Long fur traps more snow, ice, salt, and chemicals. Keeping it neatly trimmed reduces buildup.
Regularly cleaning your floors and entryways will also help reduce chemical residue being tracked around on your cat’s paws. Be sure to use pet-safe cleaners.
Check your cat’s paws daily for signs of irritation like redness, swelling, cracked pads, or bleeding. See your vet promptly if you notice any concerning symptoms. Keeping their paws clean is key to avoiding winter hazards.
Sources:
https://www.petplace.com/article/cats/pet-care/winter-skin-and-paw-care-in-cats
Prevent Licking
Cats often lick their paws to clean themselves, but excessive paw licking can be a sign of skin irritation or allergies. In the winter, cats may lick their paws more due to dry, cracked skin caused by the cold weather. Licking can further irritate the skin and cause more damage (The Village Vets). There are a few ways to discourage a cat from licking irritated paws:
– Provide distractions like toys when the cat starts licking. This diverts their attention and stops the licking habit.
– Use a bitter tasting spray made specifically for deterring cats from licking. Apply it to the fur on the paws. The bad taste will discourage licking (Cat Explorer).
– If excessive licking persists, see a veterinarian to treat any underlying skin conditions causing irritation.
Stopping the licking cycle is important to prevent further damage to the paws. Try distractions and sprays first before the habit becomes ingrained.
Monitor Time Outside
It’s important to limit your cat’s time outside when temperatures become extremely cold. According to PetMD, anything below 45°F is too cold for cats [1]. Their small bodies lose heat quickly, putting them at risk of hypothermia. The Rescue Vets recommends keeping the inside temperature around 70°F to ensure your cat’s body temperature stays above 90°F [2].
Cats should not be left outside for extended periods when temperatures dip below freezing (32°F). Even short excursions below freezing can be dangerous. Limit outside time to quick supervised bathroom breaks or walks on a leash. Pay close attention for signs of cold stress like shivering, lethargy, weakness, and confusion.
If allowing any outdoor access during cold snaps, provide warm sheltered areas for cats to retreat to. Stay alert for neighborhood cats seeking refuge under porches or vehicles. Bring outdoor and stray cats indoors until temperatures become safer.
Provide Paw-Friendly Surfaces
During the winter, hard floors like tile, laminate, and hardwood can become slippery for cats. This can make it difficult for them to walk and can lead to injuries. To provide better traction, use boot trays, mats, and towels in areas your cat frequents.
Boot trays with rubber backing placed by doors and in hallways give your cat secure footing as they transition between inside and outside. Look for trays with raised edges to help wipe and absorb moisture from paws.
Plush mats in sleeping areas create a softer, warmer surface for your cat to rest on. The mat will also soak up any melted snow from their paws. Use mats made of absorbent, machine washable materials.
Lay down towels in prone-to-slip areas like tiled kitchens and bathrooms. Make sure the towels are firmly fixed to the floor so they don’t slide. Replace towels frequently as they get wet.
Cats with long fur on their paws may be prone to slipping. Keep their paws trimmed to improve traction. Also inspect their paws regularly and clean off any packed snow or ice that could lead to slips.
By providing secure, paw-friendly surfaces around your home, you can help prevent painful sprains or strains this winter. Your cat will appreciate the extra comfort and footing security as they go about their daily activities.
Conclusion
In summary, winterizing your cat’s paws involves several key steps. It’s important to moisturize their paws regularly to prevent cracking and drying. Keeping their nails trimmed will help avoid painful snags and injuries. Routinely inspecting and cleaning their paws removes irritants and toxins. Preventing excessive licking and limiting time outdoors in frigid temperatures are also recommended. Providing paw-friendly surfaces around your home reduces discomfort. By following these tips, you can help keep your cat’s paws healthy and protected throughout the winter months. Proper paw care is essential for their comfort and wellbeing when the weather turns cold.