My cat's claw is cracked. What should I do until the vet appointment?

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Ouch! Poor Marcel! I would take Marcel to the Vet. If he is otherwise ok, you can wait until the Vet opens. He needs that nail trimmed all the way back, otherwise it is a source of pain. If the toe is swollen the Vet may also provide antibiotics and pain medications for a few days. If he is licking the paw, which is common, try to get an E-collar to stop the licking. He may have to continue to wear it until the tow swelling has improved. Ultimately Marcel will be fine! I hope this helps and I wish Marcel a speedy recovery!

Hi there. It looks like Mae ripped off her nail while she was out and about. There isn't much to do for that other than let the nail grow back. If she'll tolerate it, you can try soaking her feet in warm water with some epsom salts sprinkled in, this can be very soothing. Otherwise, I think you are fine to just monitor at home and see the vet if there are any changes. I hope that helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

You can use epsom salt and soak the paws in a solution of water and epsom salt (2 tbsp to 1 gallon roughly) and soak for 15 minutes twice daily. A better balm to use on cracked pads and skin is a product called Bio Balm by Dermoscent. You can get this online easily and it works quite effectively. If the skin around his nails becomes swollen or begins to discharge pus, I would recommend having a veterinarian examine the area for further treatment.

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.

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If one of Noushmc's paws seem to be wounded, I would recommend she see her veterinarian soon to take a closer look at the paw so it can be evaluated properly. If the underlying tissue is exposed, the paw can become infected and the litter can potentially be problematic if the wound is large enough. You can try using 3% hydrogen peroxide instead of the vinegar and water until you are able to get her seen by her veterinarian. I hope this helps!

Poor Kitty. Try to apply gentle pressure to stop the bleeding. Put an Ecollar on her to keep her from licking it, as that can make it worse. You can make one at home or buy one at a pet store. Having her seen by a vet tomorrow is a good idea.

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.