My cat's paw nail is damaged and swollen. When should I see a vet?

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!

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.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I do recommend that she is evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. The reason is that this may be a local infection site which can be painful and cause her discomfort. Another possibility is a traumatic injury which may need further care or even a tumor. They would be able to determine what is going exactly and treat accordingly. Good luck!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This may be due to an infection or a traumatic injury for example. It is difficult to know without being able to examine her. I recommend that you have her evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to start antibiotics if needed. Good luck and have a good night!

It appears as if she tore her nail. Ideally, she should be examined by your veterinarian. This injury can be quite painful. Piper may need it bandaged or protected until it heals. Antibiotics and pain management may also be indicated. If she is licking at it, place an e-collar (cone) on her until she sees the doctor.

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.

It does look like Nina’s paw is swollen. I would be concerned that she either has an abscess (likely from a cat fight wound) or has one or more fractured bones in her paw. I think the best course of action would be to take Nina to the vet to be examined. Your vet may recommend X-rays to have a better understanding of what is going on. As far as the shedding is concerned, cats can shed excessively when they are stressed. So you may be noticing more hair if she is stressed from being injured. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.