My cat's injured claw won't retract. Will it heal or need a vet?

The nail itself doesn't look injured from the photos provided, but looks more like it isn't retracting fully. You can try to trim the nail back a little if it's bothersome and to keep it from snagging on anything, however if he's not letting you touch the foot, or seems painful when you do, there could be an injury or issue with the toe or area surrounding that is preventing the nail from retracting. If it doesn't resolve on its own, trying to find a vet that can take a look in person is best. If you're having trouble affording care, this site may help give you some ideas and options to make it more affordable so that Tora can be seen by a vet as needed: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/having-trouble-affording-veterinary-care

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.

It is impossible to know what is causing him to be lame without an examination. The best thing would be to have a vet take a look at him to do an orthopedic examination and take an xray, if needed, to determine the exact cause. He could have an infection, fracture, or strain/sprain. Once diagnsed, your vet can decide the best way to treat his problem. He may just need an antibiotic and/or an anti-inflammatory/pain medications. I hope Smokey feels better soon!

If the area is painful I would recommend taking him to the vet to assess underlying injuries and possible infection within the wound but if the claw is loose and stuck in the fur it may be possible to pick out without trouble. Wounds from cat bites and scratches tend to become infected so I would recommend a vet check with your regular vet tomorrow, especially if any signs of fever are present (lethargy, reduced appetite or thirst, pain, increased breathing rate).

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.

I am sorry to hear about Belle! I would recommend bringing her into the vet, as she is obviously painful. She could have torn a claw but there could be a remnant of the claw remaining that needs removal as this can cause pain if it is hanging on. We also worry about infection in these cases, so it is best to have your vet check her out so we can make sure she is as comfortable as can be!

Poor kitty! Since this wound looks rather deep and he is limping, I would definitely recommend having him seen by a veterinarian - it looks like he will probably need an antibiotic and possibly an anti-inflammatory or other pain medication, in order to treat the injury and help it heal.