The particular pain of feline pillow foot

The particular pain of feline pillow foot


A cat’s paws do more than cushion their gait and help them stick their landings. They provide a window into their overall health.

Some cats develop a condition called plasma cell pododermatitis, also known as “pillow foot.” Plasma cells are immune cells that normally pump out antibodies to fight infections. But in pillow foot, many of these cells invade soft tissues of the paw, causing swelling and even open sores. It can leave cats in great pain, less active and often lame. Some develop fevers and lose their appetite.

This is when keen veterinary diagnostic skills are called for, since other conditions can look similar. Once diagnosed, a veterinarian can formulate an individual treatment plan.

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