What are these white things on my cat's paw pad? Is it maggots?

Cats can sometimes get moist litter stuck between the pads. If Sarah goes outside, sap and tar are also possible. Try to clean and wash it off. This will give you a better idea what it is and to make sure the skin underneath is normal. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

That looks like a little hot spot or area of infection on his foot. With there being a lot of flies around I worry that they will further irritate the wound. Sometimes flies can even lay eggs in an open wound and then the wound becomes infested with maggots (fly larva). I would recommend cleaning the wound thoroughly and trying to keep your dog inside until it heals (or at least keeping the flies away from him). If the wound does not seem to be healing quickly I would recommend taking him to be checked out by your vet. Sometimes these wounds need to be clipped and flushed clean and Blue may need antibiotics to help it heal.

Maggots are usually very clearly seen when you look at the wound, it also smells extremely bad. this looks like an abscess, i don't know if she has been seen by a vet or not, if not then you need to take her to the vet ASAP, she will need antibiotic treatment.

If you keep finding maggots there is a relatively large infestation, You should shave the hair around the wound and wash it well with disinfectant removing all the maggots. If you cannot do that you will need to take your cat to your veterinarian for a clip, clean, disinfect, and exam. Maggots can kill your cat. Neither you nor your dog will get maggots unless you have the respective blue bottle or similar flies in your house and a wound into which the flies can lay their eggs

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Remy. Yes, I do recommend that he sees a veterinarian as there may be an infection present. The paw will be cleaned with a disinfecting solution to evaluate the pad under the scab. If a wound is present, antibiotics may be necessary. I hope this information helps!

It could be a bacterial or fungal infection around the nail, nail bed or paw pad. A close physical exam would be needed for a definitive diagnosis. See your veterinarian in the morning. If Cosmo is licking or chewing, place an e-collar (cone) on him until he sees the doctor.

Oh goodness, that looks like a deep infection. It could be bacterial or fungal, but I suspect more likely bacterial. He needs to see a veterinarian for an examination and treatment plan. However, in the meantime if he will allow you to soak his foot in warm water and Epsom salts that may be soothing and beneficial. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.