Is Paw Wax Safe for Dogs and Cats?

Innovative pet parents and companies are always coming up with new ways to keep our pets safe from harm while exploring the great outdoors. One of the latest inventions to hit the market is paw wax. Paw wax is an increasingly popular way to protect sensitive paws from snow, sun, and sand. But what is paw wax? And is paw wax safe for dogs and cats? Let's take a look.

Ever worry about your pet's paws burning on hot pavement? Paw wax is designed to form a barrier that protects your pet's feet from burning, bleeding, or cracking while walking on hot or rugged ground. This breathable barrier over your pet's paws is usually made from all-natural ingredients like vitamin E, vegetable oil, and beeswax. 

As well as providing summer protection, paw wax keeps your pet safe in the winter. Your dog's feet can become dry and cracked in the snow, and ice collecting between your pet's toes can be extremely painful.

Wax can be a "grrreat" alternative to summer and winter dog boots, especially for wily dogs who like to put up a fight when putting their shoes on. (However, paw wax may not provide the same level of protection from the elements as boots.)

Paw wax has other purposes too. It can prevent the paw pads from absorbing harsh chemicals, like those found in lawn fertilizers and snow-melt products. Paw wax can also protect against irritation from salt grit and rough surfaces.

Paw wax is primarily for your pet's paws; however, you can also apply it to other parts of your pet's body, like their snout and ears, to help rejuvenate and protect sensitive areas from the elements.

It's worth noting that there's a difference between paw waxes and paw balms. Paw balms moisturize your pet's paws to help them heal, while paw wax protects them from hot pavements and ice.

Paw wax for dogs is far more common than for cats. If you're struggling to find paw wax for your cat, consider making your own paw wax.

Paw wax products are generally safe to use on your pet. Paw wax is made from non-toxic, all-natural ingredients that won't irritate your pet's skin or cause them any harm.

Because paw wax is so rich, it may upset your pet's stomach if ingested, but it will not harm your pet. As many paw wax companies point out, your pet is unlikely to lick their paws anyway, especially dogs. 

If your pet has allergies, or if you're worried about the contents of paw wax, contact a veterinary professional to discuss your concerns. They'll be able to advise if it's safe to use on your pet.

Pets have survived for centuries without paw wax, so your pet doesn't necessarily need it. That being said, paw wax can benefit pets, especially if they live in areas of the world with extreme climates. 

If your pet is a keen adventurer who spends most of their time outside on hot pavements or on snowy trails, then paw wax might give them the protection needed to avoid painful paws and spend more time rambling.

Talk to your vet before applying paw wax if you're worried about allergic reactions and possible side effects. 

You might also be wondering when and how to apply paw wax to your pet's feet. Some top brands say to apply paw wax 2 to 3 times per week, but this may vary depending on the product. It can also depend on the weather. The best way to tell is to look at your pet's paws for signs of dryness and cracking. 

You'll usually take about a pea-sized amount of paw wax and gently rub it onto the pads of your pet's paws. If you're planning to go somewhere sandy or snowy, apply the balm in between your pet's toes as well. 

Applying pet wax in the evening is wise, as it'll absorb into your pet's feet overnight. If you find the wax is leaving a residue on your floors, you may have applied too much. If you need to remove paw wax from your pet's paws, try dabbing it with a paper towel — just be aware that it's difficult to remove entirely due to its waxy consistency.

A quick search of the web and you'll find many paw wax brands to try out. Popular paw wax brands include:

• Musher's Secret Dog Paw Protection Wax
• Pawstruck Paw Wax Balm for Dogs
• Bodhi Dog Paw Protection Wax For Dogs
• Vets Preferred Dog Paw Balm
• Four Paws Dog Paw Protection Wax
• Natural Dog Company Paw Protection Wax
• Expawlorer Paw Protection Balm