What to Put on a Cat's Burned Pad

A cat's paw pads may be burned because of exposure to heat or chemicals. The burns may be severe or mild, depending on the time of exposure and the intensity of the burn's cause. The cat will lick the wounded pads, and they will be red, blistered and swollen. In severe cases, the cat may suffer from shock. Administer first aid help and take your pet to the veterinarian. The treatment of the burn depends on its severity.

  1. Wash the Wound

    • No matter the cause of the burn, it helps to place the wound under cold running water for five minutes. The cold water numbs the area and reduces pain, but may also remove the chemicals that caused the burn. Use a mild anti-bacterial soap to wash the wound. Pat the area dry.

    Cold Compresses

    • The website Doctor Dog recommends applying cold compresses to the wound if it is superficial. The compresses numb the area and minimize swelling. Keep the compresses on for 30 minutes and then take a 30-minute break. Don't use ice. If the burn is severe, the Earth Clinic website recommends dipping gauze in sterile water or a saline solution and applying it to the wounds.

    Aloe Vera

    • You can treat first-degree burns at home. After washing the wound, Earth Clinic recommends applying aloe vera three to five times a day. Apply aloe vera gel or cream generously on the cat's pads with your fingers or a plastic stick. The cream soothes the wound and kills bacteria and fungi.

    Apply Antibiotic Ointment

    • If the burn is severe, such as a second- or third-degree burn, and the skin on the pads is destroyed, the risk of infection is high. Apply an antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover it. Take the cat to the veterinarian, who will administer intravenous fluids, pain medication and anti-inflammatory drugs. Skin grafting may be required, depending on the severity of the burn. The prognosis is poor if over 15 percent of the cat's body is burned.

    Cover the Wound

    • Cover the wound with sterile gauze to prevent the cat from licking the antibiotic or aloe vera ointment. If the cat tries to remove the gauze, place a lampshade collar around its neck. Don't use cotton balls to cover the cat's burns. Small fibers may stick to the wound and may be difficult to remove.