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My cat has a deep paw cut. Can it heal without costly stitches?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 1 year and 3 months old | 12 lbs

My cat has cut one of her foot pads with a sharp object. its a deep cut and had no foreign object in it. cut has been cleaned thoroughly and bandaged, she's had antibiotic injection and pain relief - although she showed no sign of infection or pain. been told she should have a stitch and be put under along with more meds. I do not have pet insurance and this is nearly £500 onto of the £120 initial visit. It is a cut as we would a finger, cannot it not just be left to heal?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on March 4th, 2017

It may heal without suturing but it is difficult for me to tell you for sure without seeing it obviously. if money is an issue i recommend that you contact the RSPCA or the PDSA, they should be able to help.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on April 27th, 2017
Ouch, poor Tema! If the vet said that she needs stitches, then I would agree with the assessment of your vet. I can give you some resources that may help you afford this for Tema. You can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website.
http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962
https://www.redrover.org
https://www.carecredit.com
http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets
http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/

The Feline Veterinary Emergency Assistance Program is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization that provides financial assistance to cat and kitten guardians who are unable to afford veterinary services to save their companions when life-threatening illness or injury strikes. 
God's Creatures Ministry helps pay for veterinarian bills for those who need help. 
The Onyx & Breezy Foundation has many programs including helping people with medical bills. They are a good resource for information. 
Brown Dog Foundation provides funding to families with a sick pet that would likely respond to treatment, but due to circumstances, there is not enough money immediately available to pay.
IMOM is dedicated to insure that no companion animal has to be euthanized simply because their caretaker is financially challenged. 

I hope one of these resources helps you!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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