After outdoor activity, look at each paw and between the toes for grit, plant material, swelling, cuts or anything sticky on the fur. Stop if your cat is painful, and contact a vet rather than digging at an embedded object.
Choose a calm, bright place
Cats Protection recommends checking cats after outdoor activity for grass seeds and other debris. Let the cat stand or lie naturally. Handle one paw briefly, supporting the leg rather than pulling it away from the body.
Look between toes and around pads
Check the top and underside, claws, pad edges and feathering. Compare left and right paws. A small seed caught in surface fur is different from a puncture, swelling, bleeding or persistent limp.
Be cautious with unknown substances
Prevent licking and call a vet if the paw may have contacted antifreeze, paint, pesticide or another chemical. Take a photograph of the label if available. Do not use solvents or essential oils to clean fur.
Use grooming tools only on loose coat
The Cashmere Comb may help with ordinary loose fur around longer-coated legs, but not embedded material or wounds. Finish with a treat from the daily allowance if handling went calmly.
Sources and further reading
Guidance checked 13 September 2026.
