Paw Pads Changing Color

[Kwood0015]

hi All

Pele has recently been diagnosed with IBD or lymphoma (going to oncologist Tuesday). He has been on steroids (10mg per day) and today he has been withdrawn and sleeping a lot ...I noticed his paw pads used to be black and now are a pinkish/light brown color - can’t find anything online to help determine what this is? Wondering if I need to take him to the vet tomorrow?

Thanks
K and Pele

 

[babiesmom5]

Cats with IBD and/or Lymphoma can sometimes develop anemia secondary to chronic inflammatory disease...which your cat has.

The signs of lethargy, plus change in paw color suggest possible anemia. With a cat who has pink paw pads, anemia will show as pale paw pads. A better indicator in your case would be gums. I would peel back his lips and check his gums. If pale, this could possibly indicate anemia. I would recommend seeing your vet.

Your vet would do bloodwork, specifically checking PCV (packed cell volume) and Hematocrit.

 

[Mamanyt1953]

It isn't unheard of for this to happen as cats age and grow, and cats CAN have vitiligo, however, with your cat's other health issues, I would take the "Better safe than sorry" route and see your vet, or at the very least call him, explain what is happening and ask if Pele should be seen.

 

[carebare]

My cat naturally has white gums...I freaked out once over it. I also noticed his nose changed colors over time where black blotches appeared (I looked at past photos). I think cats can change colors, or their paw pads get dirty or calloused. However, given his health issues, it could be something else as well.

 

[Kwood0015]

Thanks so much everyone - much appreciated! vet said it’s prob due to some immune response (prob bc of IBD/lymphoma) - and oddly steroids should help treat, which he’s on now ...just hope it doesn’t get painful for him, he’s going thru enough right now :-(

 

[Mamanyt1953]

Poor baby. Keep us posted on how he is doing!