Why cats' paw pads are so sensitive

Those soft pads under a cat's feet, nicknamed toe beans in English and 肉球 in Japanese, do much more than look cute.

What paw pads do

The thick pads cushion each step and help a cat walk and land quietly. They are full of nerve endings that let a cat feel the ground, its texture and even vibrations. They also contain sweat glands, and a nervous cat can leave damp paw prints on a vet's table.

Why many cats dislike paw touching

Because the paws are so sensitive and so important for running and climbing, many cats pull away when their feet are handled. The claws are right there too, and a cat protects them. If you need to trim claws, get the cat used to gentle paw touches little by little, with treats, rather than all at once.

Scent and scratching

Glands between the toes leave scent when a cat scratches. That is one reason scratching posts matter: scratching marks territory as well as keeping the claws in shape.

Kneading

Many cats push their front paws in and out on a soft blanket or a lap. The habit starts in kittenhood, when kneading helps the milk flow while nursing, and adult cats often do it when they feel relaxed and safe.