How to bandage a cats paw

It is important that a paw bandage is applied correctly so that it stays in place and also so that no skin irritation occurs. A bandage that is too loose can easily fall off, while a bandage that is too tight can irritate the cat, cause pressure injuries and impair wound healing.

Paw bandage - a challenge on cats

Putting paw bandages on cats is a real challenge as they usually can't stay calm or obey commands like a dog. Below we describe how to put paw bandages but this can be difficult in practice and can end with tears, bite wounds and an unbandaged paw. Paw bandages should only be put at home as a temporary solution to, for example, stop bleeding on the way to the vet or when a veterinarian is not available. Usually, the cat needs to have the paw bandage applied under sedation by a veterinarian.

First aid - paw bandage on cats

1
Wash the wound with sterile saline (0.9%) and apply a sterile compress closest to the wound. If saline solution is not available, you can use clean water. You should avoid using alcohol which can sting.
2
Place cotton strings between your toes to avoid moisture and irritation.
3
Put cotton around the entire paw and a bit up the leg.
4
Wrap the gauze or similar back and forth on the top and bottom of the paw and along the leg. Secure the gauze with plaster tape.
5
Wrap one round of adhesive support dressing until the bandage is covered. If you use elastic bandages, they must not be tightened.

When may you need to put on paw bandages?

There is a wound, injury, or bleeding on the paw or paw pad.
After surgery or stitches on the paw to protect the wound.
In case of fracture

Important: The vet decides whether a paw bandage needs to be put on or not, paw bandages at home should only be put on to stop bleeding while waiting for the vet or put on the vet's advice.

Remember to change the dressing as instructed by your veterinarian.

Typically, cat's will need to have a collar to avoid biting the bandage. If the cat shows irritation with the bandage, it indicates that something is wrong. Take off the bandage to inspect the paw and wounds. Keep an eye out for blisters, redness of the skin or moisture between the toes. Feel free to let the cat air it's paw under your supervision before applying a new bandage.

If you see irritation/swelling or smell bad odours, contact a veterinarian for examination and further advice.