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Why is my cat's paw swollen and she's acting so quiet and clingy?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 4 years and 11 months old

Hello my cat is being very clingy following my every step, sat on my knee constantly wanting cuddles and having to be with me, when investigating I have noticed her left back paw seems swollen, she seems to have a yellowy patch inbetween her pads on her fur, she is still walking on her paw without crying and still eating her food but very quiet atm and very clingy, she was shaking earlier when I was looking at her paw. Do you have any advice please

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Laura Johnson VMD

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 7th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Isla!

If she is indoor/outdoor it could be a bite wound or abscess. If she is 100% indoors it could be a foot infection or a puncture wound. You can start with taking her temperature rectally, 103 F or higher is a fever. If her temperature is normal you can wait to have her seen when your vet opens. I do think she needs the foot examined.

Good luck!
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