If your dog is constantly licking their paws or your cat won’t stop chewing at their toes, it can be more than just a quirky habit. Itchy paws are just one of the reasons that pets come to visit us at Animal Hospital of Fort Lauderdale. While it might seem minor at first, paw-related itchiness can signal deeper health issues and even lead to painful infections if ignored. Understanding what’s behind your pet’s paw problems is the first step to getting them comfortable again.
Why is My Pet Licking Their Paws?
There can be many triggers that cause licking and chewing of paws. Allergens, parasites, and irritants are all common triggers. When pets lick, chew, or bite at their feet, it’s usually their way of trying to relieve discomfort. Unfortunately, this often makes the problem worse, creating sores or opening the door to infection.
Common Causes of Paw Itching
- Allergies: Environmental allergens like grass, pollen, and mold are frequent triggers in South Florida. Allergies in pets can lead to redness, swelling, and constant licking.
- Fleas and mites: Parasites can cause irritation on the paws, especially in sensitive pets.
- Infections: The warm, moist spaces between toes are perfect environments for yeast to thrive. Pets with infections often have a strong odor and brown discoloration on the fur around their paws.
- Contact irritants: Lawn chemicals, household cleaners, and even rough surfaces like hot pavement can cause irritation.
- Injuries or foreign bodies: Splinters, thorns, or small cuts can cause licking that looks like allergy symptoms
When Should You Worry About Your Pet Chewing Their Paws?
Occasional paw licking and chewing is normal grooming behavior. But if you notice…
- Constant licking or chewing at the feet
- Red or inflamed skin between the toes
- A sour or musty odor from the paws
- Limping or sensitivity when touched
- Hair loss or dark staining of the fur around the paws
…it’s time to schedule a veterinary exam. These signs often point to infection or a medical condition that won’t resolve without veterinary treatment.
Treating Paw Issues in Pets
If your pet seems to have an issue with one or multiple paws, schedule a veterinary appointment. A veterinarian can perform a detailed exam and diagnostic tests if needed. Skin scrapings or cultures are used by veterinary professionals to identify yeast or bacteria, allergy testing to uncover triggers, or parasite checks to figure out a specific parasite. Once the vet has a diagnosis, they can develop a treatment plan to target the source of your pet’s paw problem. By addressing both the immediate problem and its underlying cause, the risk of recurring paw issues is reduced.
Veterinary Treatment for Paw Issues in Fort Lauderdale, FL
When your pet won’t leave their paws alone, it’s a sign that something is wrong. Animal Hospital of Fort Lauderdale treats pets in Fort Lauderdale for issues that cause itching and licking paws. If you have a pet that can’t stop itching in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Oakland Park, Wilton Manors, or neighboring areas, contact us for an appointment.
