Stray cat with Swollen Foot - Should I wrap it?

Appreciate the question — let’s unpack this. It’s great that you’re looking out for this stray cat. A swollen foot could result from various things, such as an injury, a sting or bite, an infection, or even a foreign object like a thorn. Cats are incredibly agile, but they can sometimes get themselves into sticky situations.



First, take a closer look at the swollen area. If you can safely handle the cat, gently examine the foot for any visible wounds, cuts, or objects stuck in the paw. Redness, warmth, or pus might indicate an infection, while a foreign object might be easier to spot.



As for wrapping the foot, it’s generally not recommended without knowing the underlying cause because it might cause more harm than good, especially if the swelling is due to an infection or circulation issue. Instead, try to keep the cat in a safe and quiet environment if possible, and make sure it's not putting too much weight on the affected foot.



Watch for signs like increased swelling, limping, changes in behavior, not eating, or if the foot is very painful to the touch — these could indicate a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.



Consider booking a video consult with Dial A Vet. This way, we can discuss the cat's condition in more detail and provide the best steps moving forward.