People usually land on a page like this after spotting a claw snagging in carpet, a split nail, or a sudden flinch when a paw is handled. Sometimes it’s simpler: the furniture is taking a beating, or an older cat’s claws are starting to curl.
A cat’s paws are compact, load-bearing tools: soft pads for quiet traction, and curved claws that grow in layers and need regular wear or occasional trimming. Get the basics right and most paw problems stay small. Miss the early signs and you can end up with painful tears, infections, or claws that grow into the pad.
Anatomy of a cat’s paw (pads, toes, and claws)
Each front paw usually has five toes (including the dewclaw) and each back paw has four. Underneath are thick pads that absorb impact, steady the cat on smooth surfaces, and muffle footsteps.
The claw itself is made of keratin (the same protein found in human nails). A healthy claw is slightly translucent at the tip, with a living centre called the quick (blood vessels and nerves). When the claw is cut too close to the quick it bleeds and hurts, which is why careful trimming matters.1, 2
How cats use their claws (and why they’re retractable)
Most of the time, a relaxed cat keeps the claws retracted. When needed, they extend in a clean, fast movement for climbing, gripping, play, hunting behaviour, or self-defence. Retracting the claws also helps keep the tips sharp by reducing constant wear.
Scratching behaviour: what it’s for
Scratching is normal. It maintains the claw by helping shed the outer sheath, and it leaves both visible marks and scent from glands in the paws.3, 4
In a home, the goal usually isn’t to stop scratching. It’s to give the behaviour somewhere safe to land.
Helping your cat scratch the “right” things
- Offer sturdy posts (tall enough for a full stretch) and flat scratchers.
- Place one near favourite rest spots and near the area they already scratch.
- If scratching ramps up around doorways or windows, treat it as information: some cats scratch more there for communication or insecurity, and they may need extra outlets and calm routines in those areas.4
Do you need to clip your cat’s claws?
Many cats keep their claws at a workable length through normal activity and scratching. Trimming is most useful when claws are catching on fabric, growing unusually long, or when an older/less active cat isn’t wearing them down as well as they used to.5
If your cat goes outdoors, be cautious. Outdoor cats may rely on claws for climbing and escape, and many veterinary sources advise that most cats—especially those with outdoor access—don’t routinely need trims unless there’s a specific problem.5
How to clip a cat’s claws safely
Trim only the sharp, clear tip. Avoid the pink quick. If you’re unsure, take off less—tiny, frequent trims are safer than one bold cut.1, 2
A calm, practical method
- Choose a quiet moment when your cat is relaxed or sleepy.
- Use cat-specific nail clippers with a clean cutting edge.
- Gently press the toe pad to extend the claw and identify the quick.
- Snip the very tip in one quick motion; stop before your cat gets stressed.
- Reward and end on a neutral note. Some cats cope better with “one paw at a time” over a few days.2, 6
If you cut the quick
Bleeding looks dramatic but is usually manageable. Apply gentle pressure, and use styptic powder or cornflour/cornstarch if you have it. If bleeding won’t stop, or the claw becomes swollen or painful later, contact your vet.1, 6
Common claw and paw problems (and when to see a vet)
Claws can split, snag, or grow too long. The tissues around the claw can also become inflamed or infected (for example, paronychia), leading to redness, swelling, discharge, or limping.7
Red flags worth a veterinary check
- Limping, holding a paw up, or obvious pain on touch
- Swelling, redness, discharge, or a bad smell around the nail bed
- A claw that’s cracked deep at the base, hanging, or bleeding
- Persistent licking/chewing at one foot
- Claws curling towards (or into) the pad, especially in older cats
Keeping paws healthy day to day
- Do quick weekly checks: claws, pads, and between the toes (look for small cuts, grass seeds, or grit).
- Support natural wear: provide scratching surfaces and encourage gentle play.
- Keep trims small and regular: particularly for indoor or senior cats that aren’t wearing claws down well.
Paw care for senior cats
Older cats can become less flexible, less active, or a bit arthritic, and their claws may overgrow more easily. Long claws can snag and tear, and in severe cases can curl into the pad. If your senior cat resists handling or can’t comfortably scratch, ask your vet or a groomer to demonstrate safe trimming and to check for pain that’s changing their gait or grooming habits.5, 7
Final thoughts
The original draft wandered into spiders, but the real story here is simpler: a cat’s paws are built for silent movement and sudden grip, and claws are meant to be used. Offer good scratching options, trim only when needed, and treat new paw tenderness as a clue rather than a nuisance.
References
- Hill’s Pet Nutrition Australia — Trimming cat claws
- PetSure Australia — How to cut your cat’s nails
- VCA Animal Hospitals — Cat behaviour problems: scratching behaviour
- Cats Protection — Why cats scratch (behaviour guidance)
- Vet Voice — Clipping your pet’s claws (including whether cats need trims)
- Pet Professional Guild Australia — Trimming claws (safety and technique)
- PetMD — Nail and nail-bed disorders in cats
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Why cats like scratching posts
Veterinary Advisor, Veterinarian London Area, United Kingdom