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My cat's paw pads are thick and hard. Is this normal or a problem?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

What is this on my cats paw?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on February 15th, 2020

This could be due to a hyperkeratosis of the pads. Hyperkeratosis is a thickening of the skin which can occur in cats and dogs when too much keratin, or the fibrous proteins that comprise the outer layer of skin, is produced. This leads to excessive skin, which becomes hard, thickened, dried out, and callous-like. Usually is completely benign and no further action is needed.

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