NAVLE Integumentary

Feline Diseases of Pads Study Guide

March 28, 2026 25 min read 20 views
Feline paw pad diseases (pododermatitis) represent a distinct group of dermatologic conditions that are frequently encountered on the NAVLE. Unlike canine pododermatitis, feline paw pad diseases have unique etiologies and presentations.

Overview and Clinical Importance

Feline paw pad diseases (pododermatitis) represent a distinct group of dermatologic conditions that are frequently encountered on the NAVLE. Unlike canine pododermatitis, feline paw pad diseases have unique etiologies and presentations. The term pododermatitis describes inflammation affecting the paws, including the paw pads, interdigital spaces, and nail folds (paronychia).

The most commonly tested feline paw pad conditions on the NAVLE include: Plasma Cell Pododermatitis (Pillow Foot), Pemphigus Foliaceus, Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex, Feline Lung-Digit Syndrome, and Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Recognition of clinical patterns and understanding of pathophysiology are essential for diagnosis and treatment.

Feature Description
Pads Affected Central metacarpal and metatarsal pads most commonly affected; usually multiple feet involved; rarely single foot
Classic Appearance Soft, spongy, doughy swelling with characteristic "mushy" texture; pads balloon out like pillows
Surface Changes White silvery striae (striations) crossing the pad surface; fine scaling/exfoliation; crosshatched appearance
Color Changes Depigmentation; erythema; violaceous (purplish) discoloration in light-colored pads
Progressive Disease Ulceration (20-35% of cases); bleeding; granulation tissue formation; secondary infection
Pain/Lameness Greater than 70% of cats present with lameness as primary complaint, especially with ulceration; some cats surprisingly asymptomatic

Feline Paw Pad Anatomy Review

Cats have six paw pads per front foot and five per rear foot. The major pads include the central metacarpal/metatarsal pad (largest pad) and the digital pads associated with each digit. Key anatomic features:

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