My cat's claw is bent, split, and bloody, but he acts normal. What now?

Anything you apply will likely be licked off and ingested. This could further complicate his condition. If a vet visit is not possible now, you can try soaking the paw in a diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) solution twice daily. Dry it thoroughly afterwards. An e-collar (cone) is your best bet at preventing licking which could delay healing. If this doesn't work, Thor will need to be seen by your veterinarian. He may need antibiotics to resolve any infection and pain medication to manage discomfort. Do not medicate him at home without the advice of your veterinarian.

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.

If it currently bleeding you can use some corn starch to help slow the bleeding. Also if you are able to place a light bandage on it to prevent him from licking it tonight that would be good. You can also use a cone collar which you can find at your local pet store if it is still open. I would take him to your vet first thing in the morning for an exam. He may need to have it cleaned, medicated and professionally wrapped. Your vet will also be able to provide antibiotics and pain meds if need. If it is profusely bleeding then I would take him to your local emergency clinic for attention tonight. I hope this helps!

It's hard to tell from the pictures exactly where the wound is and if it involves the claw itself. I would soak her paw in warm water (you can use a little epsom salts if you have it) to loosen the scab, then you can gently clean it with a warm wet washcloth. If you find that there is bleeding, then apply gently pressure for 15 minutes. Don't apply any topical medications as Luna will just lick them off. If the bleeding continues, or of the paw swells, or if there is a creamy or foul discharge, then she may need to go to the vet for examination and antibiotics.

Poor guy. THis nail looks to be infected. I would take him in for your vet to have a close look at this. He may need to be on a short course of antibiotics if they confirm an infection is present at the nail base. You can try cleaning it with Betadine diluted 50:50 with warm water in the meantime, until you can get him in. This will at least help antiseptically cleanse the area and also can help with any inflammation. Best of luck with your kitty Diesel and I hope his nail injury resolves soon. Take care!

You can try making an Epsom salts soak (directions for dilution with warm water are on the package), which will help to cleanse the toes, and hopefully give Maki some protection against infection - but she might not tolerate it well. You can also purchase an e-collar, which will keep her from licking, as this often causes secondary infection. You can show this to your parents - if the skin is truly peeled back, it's likely that Maki is quite painful (imagine how that would feel) and needs veterinary care in order to protect the area, prevent infection, and treat the pain. You might tell them that dealing with this now, rather than later, may be less expensive, as foot injuries can easily get complicated in cats, since they use a litter box, and infection is common.

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Khufu. You've done the right thing by cleaning his nail, and if it isn't bothering, keep an eye on him for now. If you see him licking it a lot, limping, or signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth to the touch, pus), have him seen by a vet. I hope this helps!