Interdigital dermatitis — inflammation between the toes, sometimes progressing to a cyst-like lump — is uncommon in cats but a fairly frequent concern for dog owners, especially dogs with more fur around the paw pads.

Why dogs start licking their paws

A number of everyday things can trigger excessive paw licking: burns from hot pavement, small abrasions from vigorous exercise, bacterial infection, lingering smells picked up on a walk, or even separation anxiety. Because the irritation usually starts small — between the toes or on the pad — it’s easy for owners to miss until the dog is limping or refusing to put weight on the paw.

Why it’s worth taking seriously

Paws have relatively poor blood circulation compared to the rest of the body, so an infection that takes hold there can progress faster than expected — from localised inflammation to cellulitis, and in severe, untreated cases, to a systemic infection that may require more aggressive treatment. Catching it early makes a real difference.

Five ways to prevent it

• Trim paw fur regularly to keep the area ventilated and dry.
• Clean and dry paws after walks, especially after rain or wet grass.
• Use an e-collar if your dog is already licking excessively, to break the cycle while the skin heals.
• Avoid rough terrain, hot pavement, and direct sun during walks, particularly in the middle of the day.
• Apply a paw-specific care product in moderation to keep pads conditioned rather than dry and cracked.

Basic home care

For mild irritation, saline solution, tissue, a 3M elastic bandage, iodine, gauze, tape, and an e-collar are the basics to have on hand. If a pus-filled or cyst-like lump appears between the toes, that’s a sign of a more serious infection — home care isn’t enough at that point, and a vet visit with appropriate antibiotics is needed.