🐾 Pododermatitis in Dogs and Cats: What Every Pet Parent Should Know
Pododermatitis is a painful inflammation of the paws that causes swelling, redness, and sores between the toes.
Many pets struggle to walk, lick their paws nonstop, or develop open wounds—yet most owners don’t notice it until it becomes severe.
Understanding the early signs and causes can help you treat it quickly and keep your pet comfortable.
Causes of Pododermatitis ? What can cause Pododermatitis in dogs and cats ?
Pododermatitis in dogs and cats can be caused by many different factors that irritate or infect the paws.
Common causes include :
- Bacterial or fungal infections.
- Allergies to food or the environment.
- Parasites like mites (especially Demodex).
- Foreign bodies such as grass seeds, thorns, or small stones can also get stuck between the toes and trigger inflammation.
- In some pets, constant licking, obesity, or walking on hot, rough, or dirty surfaces can worsen the condition.
Because the causes vary, proper diagnosis is important to choose the right treatment and prevent the problem from coming back.
What are the symptoms of pododermatitis ? How can i know that my dog or cat has Pododermatitis ?
Symptoms of Pododermatitis in Dogs and Cats :
Pododermatitis often shows up as redness, swelling, and soreness between the toes or around the paw pads.
You may notice open wounds, ulceration, bleeding, or hair loss in the affected areas.
Pets commonly show lameness, licking or chewing the paws, and sometimes a foul smell if infection is present.
In more advanced cases, the paws may look puffy, hot, and painful, and the animal may avoid walking or put little weight on the affected foot.
Is Pododermatitis treatable ? How can pododermatitis treated in dogs and cats ?
Treatment of Pododermatitis:
Treatment depends on the cause, but the goal is to reduce inflammation, control infection, and keep the paws clean.
Most cases require topical therapy like chlorhexidine washes and antibacterial or antifungal ointments. Oral antibiotics or antifungals may be prescribed for deeper infections.
Pets with allergies may need antihistamines, anti-inflammatories, or long-term allergy management. If a foreign body is present, it must be removed. Keeping paws clean, dry, and protected, along with using an e-collar, helps prevent licking and speeds healing. Severe or chronic cases should always be checked by a veterinarian.
How can we prevent our beloved pets from pododermatitis ?
Tips to prevent your dog or cat from having pododermatitis :
- Keep your pet’s paws clean and dry, especially after walks.
- Trim excess hair between the toes to prevent dirt and moisture build-up.
- Avoid walking on hot, rough, or chemically treated surfaces.
- Maintain regular tick, flea, and mite prevention, and check paws often for cuts, thorns, or redness.
- If your pet has allergies, keep triggers under control and follow your vet’s allergy plan.
- Regular grooming and early treatment of irritation help prevent pododermatitis from becoming a chronic problem .
Conclusion :
Pododermatitis may look small at first, but it can quickly become painful and serious if ignored. Early care makes a huge difference. If you notice redness, swelling, or persistent licking of the paws, don’t wait—getting the right diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term discomfort. Healthy paws mean a happier, more active pet, and your quick attention is the first step in keeping them comfortable and safe.
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