My cat has a brown nail bed and something in paw. Should I see a vet?

I would be concerned that this could be something other than feces. Sometimes infections of the nail bed with bacteria or yeast can make the nail bed look dark red or brown in color. I would also be concerned if it is indeed feces that the presence at the nail bed where it pulls under the skin when the nails retract could cause an infection. I would recommend a visit to your vet if you are unable to clean this area to be sure it isn't actually an infection and to clean the nails if needed.

Some cats will get this around their nail bed. It's a buildup of skin cells, dust and dirt. If he will let you, you can clean the nail by soaking his foot in warm water and using a soft brush to remove the gunk. If the nail bed is reddened and inflamed, it's a good idea to get him seen by your vet as he may need antibiotics to help him clear it up.

That appears to be an ingrown toe nail. The dewclaw nail can grow into a circle and into the paw pad. I would take it to the vet as soon as possible. This is very painful but also usually needs antibiotics due to infection.

I would recommend taking Tiny to a local vet to have the nail beds examined closer. It is possible for cats to get flea dirt or even fungal disease around there nail bed. Your vet might need to take a sample and look under a microscope to determine the cause and help provide proper treatment. I hope that helps

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Tommy. The picture is very helpful! It looks like either his claw broke off or he shed it, which can happen. I do not see the quick exposed or any sign of infection, so there is no need to be concerned. I hope this helps!

Is it possible that Mickey got in a fight with something? I can't tell from the photo's if the nail is actually broken or not. They do have an outter cuticle that can shed but the nail is still fine and intact. Examine the 'quik' of the nail (that's the pinkish area at the base of the nail). If the break is through that area, if you see blood or redness around the base of the nail, have Mickey examined by the veterinarian. Clean off his paws as best he will let you. Check him all over for any bite wounds and have him examined if any area found. You may also just have him examined to be safe. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

It looks like your cat’s toenail has been sheared off, probably from an injury, fight or being hit by a car. My best recommendation is to take your car to the vet where they will be able to fully clean the area around the nail, trim the nails if necessary, and give your cat an antibiotic and pain medication if needed. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.