My cat's front claws are ingrown and leaking pus. What should I do?

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.

Please keep in mind that without seeing Eartha in person I can't say this for sure, but I'm wondering if what you are seeing is part of her bone. It may be that she injured the area leading to opening of the skin and the bone sticking out. The claw doesn't grow back when it's removed, but it could be that all of the claw wasn't removed properly and that's what you are seeing. The pus indicates it's infected. I would have her seen by a vet for this as soon as possible. She will need antibiotics for the infection, and the vet can diagnose exactly what you are seeing and how best to treat it. Keep her foot as clean and dry as possible until you see a vet, and put an Ecollar on her to keep her from licking her food (I will put a link below on how to make one at home). Don't squeeze it again, and keep her indoors if she is allowed outside. You might want to tape a sock over her foot to keep litter from getting into the area. I hope this helps! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ffR-LzyW1M

I would recommend to take her to your local veterinarian for a check up as the claw must be removed and the skin part must be disinfected. Antibiotics may be needed if the are signs of more widespread infection. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

I would have Jake seen by a vet tomorrow morning. This nail will have to be cut, but it may need to be done under sedation as it will likely be painful to him. The vet can sedate him to do this, and can remove the ingrown nail. I would not feed him tonight or first thing in the morning so he has an empty stomach and is able to be safely sedated.

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.

No, I do not think that bathing in saltwater is enough. This is a very painful abscess that really needs to bee seen by a veterinarian. Your kitty will need antibiotics and pain medicine. Sometimes this can be caused by an autoimmune disease. cancer or an injury.

Poor kitty, that looks a bit painful in the pictures. My biggest concern here is the smell you are describing. This smell could be due to infection, but without seeing her in person, I can't say for certain. I do think the best thing to do is have her seen by a vet. If the nail is infected, then the vet can prescribe pain medication. Give her vet a call now to make her an appointment. I hope this helps.