Play With Paws Early For Proper Pet Health

Both dogs and cats depend on their paws for practically everything they do and it should be no surprise that they are extremely protective when it comes to their feet. Many times, your pet does not like you to touch or play with their paws and can become aggressive when moves are made near the foot and leg areas. However, regular inspection of both claws and paws are needed to ensure proper pet health.

Both cats and dogs can get burrs, splinters, and shards or anything sharp caught between their claws or embedded in the balls of the paw. Also, during extreme seasons, the paws can become dry and irritated due to the weather and extreme cold and heat. Although these areas are extremely sensitive and may be met with aggression when inspecting, if one begins early with puppies and kittens, he or she may be able to tame that particular behavior and your pet may well welcome your timely inspections.

Start Early For Ease

A cat or dog can become extremely reticent when time comes to inspect the paws. Reasons for this revolve around the fact that their paws and claws are the most important aspect of their physical body, and they don't want to risk any damage to those areas. However, if started at a young age, your pet will realize that you are not in any way looking to hurt their paws. They may be a bit combative at first, but you must be persistent. Take your pet into your lap where you can easily restrain them but remember to be as gentle as possible. Once in a position where you can lift their paws, make the attempt while speaking to them in a soothing voice. Once your pet realizes you are there to help, they become lest apt to put up a fight.

Clean Weekly

While some people may clean their pet's feet and paws on a daily basis, this may not be necessary. A thorough inspection of the paws and feet should be done weekly. Also, it is a good idea to clean their paws as well. Dirt and other debris can build up on their pads and in their claws, and it is mainly up to you to remove it. Although cats and dogs both lick and preen their paws, this can be dangerous as they may ingest foreign material that can be abrasive or have unhealthy bacteria attached to it. This is essential to ensure proper pet health and the durability of their paws.

Speak With Your Vet

It is also important to maintain open lines of communication when you are at the veterinary office. Ask your vet about foot and paw moisturizers and other products that may help keep your pet's claws and paws in proper working order. This can also be beneficial to the owner as well by not having to constantly clean up tracks that are left by your pet's paws. A pet that has happy feet will keep the house nice and neat.

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