How to Treat Paw Burns
Our furry friends go barefoot and can easily suffer paw burns as a result of walking on hot pavement or jumping on wood stoves. While many burn injuries need professional attention from your veterinarian, a minor paw burn can be treated at home. Because burns are prone to infection, providing home care will require you to keep a close eye on your pet's foot to ensure it is healing properly.
Things You'll Need
- Betadine antiseptic solution
- Silver Sulfadiazine or Neosporin ointment
- Gauze
- Sock
- Surgical tape
Instructions
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1
Wash the burn with cool, running water. If your pet will not allow you to rinse the paw in the sink or tub, place the foot over a bowl filled with cool water and use a small cup or washcloth to rinse the foot pad. Pat dry with a towel.
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2
Dilute the Betadine with water until it is the color of weak tea. Pour the Betadine solution over the paw and allow to air dry.
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3
Apply Silver Sulfadiazine ointment to the burn. Silver Sulfadiazine can be found at your local pharmacy. If you cannot find Silver Sulfadiazine, use Neosporin or another similar antibiotic ointment.
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4
Wrap your pet's paw and ankle with gauze. Cover the bandage with a sock and place tape at the top of the sock to hold the bandage in place.
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5
Change the bandage at least once daily until healed. Reapply the antibiotic ointment each time to prevent infection.
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Tips & Warnings
Use bitter apple spray to stop your pet from licking or chewing on the bandage.
This information is for minor heat-related paw burns only. In the event of a significant burn, or a burn caused by chemical exposure, take your pet to the veterinarian immediately.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Kane Skennar/Photodisc/Getty Images
