Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Cats groom their paws as part of normal grooming. Licking becomes a concern when it’s constant, focused on one paw, or causes redness, hair loss, swelling, or limping. Common causes include injuries, claw or nail bed infections, allergies, and stress. A vet can check the paw and look for underlying problems.
Signs to watch
- Constant licking or chewing at one or more paws
- Red, swollen toes or pads
- Hair loss or scabs
- Limping
- Discharge from around the claws
Common causes
- Injuries, splinters, or burrs
- Torn claws or nail bed infections
- Allergies (flea, environmental, or food)
- Stress-related overgrooming
- Pain from arthritis
- Immune conditions such as pillow paw
Go to a vet or emergency clinic right away if
- A swollen, hot, or bleeding paw
- Refusing to put weight on the leg
- Several swollen toes in an older cat
Safe home care while you arrange a visit
- Look between toes for foreign objects
- Keep the paw clean and dry
- Use a soft cone to prevent further licking until your vet visit
What to avoid
- Tea tree oil and essential oils
- Human creams or ointments that cats will lick off
- Bitter sprays on broken skin
Can you ask a vet online about this?
Online vet services can be helpful for deciding how urgent a problem is, getting general advice, and follow-up questions. But they have limits:
- A vet can’t examine your cat, listen to the heart and lungs, or run tests over video
- In many US states, a vet must have examined your cat in person before prescribing medication. Rules vary by state and are changing
- For any emergency sign listed above, go directly to an emergency clinic rather than waiting for an online reply
Have your cat’s age, weight, medications, and photos or video of the problem ready to make any consultation more useful.
More: paronychia in cats.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Diseases of the claws and claw folds
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Allergic dermatitis in cats
- Cornell Feline Health Center: Skin disorders
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.