A Guide to Your Cat’s Paws

1 Overview

What Do Cat Paws Look Like?

A cat’s paws are quite different from the cat-paw toys sold in stores. The toe beans are arranged as six on the front paws and four on the back, making 24 in total together with the four small paw pads, forming a complete paw print. Each toe bean on a cat’s paw has its own name, and the two extra beans on the front paws are called the ‘carpal pads,’ which protect the bones above the cat’s wrist; these two beans do not grow claws.

The Color of Cat Paw Pads

Usually, the color of a cat’s paw pads matches its main coat color and nose color, but there are exceptions, as detailed below:

1. Classic ‘strawberry’ paw pads: orange cats, yellow-and-white cats, white cats, etc.

2. Chocolate-coffee paw pads: black cats, blue cats, Siamese cats, tortoiseshell cats, tabby cats, etc.

3. Mixed-style paw pads: mainly a mix of black and pink, such as calico cats, domestic shorthair cats, tabby cats, and tuxedo cats.

The Shape of Cat Paw Pads

1. Triangular: If a cat’s paw pads are triangular, it usually has a big temper and looks fierce. Such cats are generally hard to get close to, and difficult to soothe once angry.

2. Heart-shaped: Cats with heart-shaped paw pads are usually easy to get along with, because they are lively, affectionate, and love to act cute. They may also be a bit naughty at times, and can be quite talkative and food-loving.

3. Round: If a cat’s paw pads are round, its personality is generally more wild, independent, and not clingy. Such cats often appear energetic but aloof.

4. Flat or concave paw pads: Such cats are generally quiet, calm, and enjoy being alone. If the owner does something exaggerated or childish to amuse them, the cat will stare at the owner as if looking at a fool. There is another type of cat whose paw pads are similar but with less connection between the two sides; these cats are generally very timid, startled by the slightest movement.

A cat’s paw pads are very sensitive because they are covered with nerve cells. Cats use their paw pads to sense their surroundings and distinguish temperature, distance, and risk, so owners should try not to press on them. If you have other questions, you can also consult an online veterinarian.