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Question:

Is my cat's claw infected?

I'm kind of freaking out here and could really use some advice. I was playing with my kitty, Luna, earlier today when I noticed she was limping a bit more than usual. When I checked her paw, I noticed one of her claws looked a bit swollen and reddish, and there was this kind of gunky stuff around it. I feel terrible because I didn't see it sooner! She's always been such an active and playful cat, and it's breaking my heart to see her like this. I'm not sure if it's just an injury from getting into trouble outdoors, or if it's something more serious. I tried cleaning it gently, but I'm worried about making it worse. Has anyone else experienced something similar with their fur babies? Should I take her to the vet immediately or is there something I can do at home to help her in the meantime? Any advice would be really appreciated, I'm just so anxious to make sure she's okay.

Answer:

Hello! I'm glad you reached out about your cat's claw. It's important to address any potential infection quickly. Here's what to look for: if the claw's surrounding area is red, swollen, or oozing pus, or if your cat is excessively licking or avoiding using the affected paw, it could be infected. Sometimes, an injury or a splinter could be the culprit.



At home, you can gently clean the area with warm water and a clean cloth. Make sure your cat’s litter box is clean to avoid further irritation. Keep an eye on your cat’s behavior—if they’re limping, showing signs of pain, or if their appetite changes, those are signs the infection might be serious.



If the symptoms don't improve in a day or two, or if you notice any severe symptoms like fever, lethargy, or increased swelling, it's critical to have a vet take a closer look. Give your cat lots of love and keep interaction with her paw to a minimum to prevent irritation.



If you're still worried, I recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet. This way, a vet can assess your cat's situation more closely and guide you on the next best steps.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 22, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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