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My cat's paw pad is missing and swollen. How to help at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered

I found my mother's cat an hour ago next door limping in the neighbor's yard and meowing meekly; I ran and picked him up, brought him in and saw that the large bottom front right paw pad seems to be completely missing. I was able to clean it a little bit with water but he would not let me gauze or bandage it. He's licked at it. The paw is swollen and he won't put weight on it and we can't take him to a vet until tomorrow. He is 2 yrs old, healthy, and an indoor and outdoor cat. Any advice helps!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on July 8th, 2017

He will need to be seen by a vet of course as he must be given antibiotics and pain killers, but in the meantime you can clean the area, put some antiseptic or antibiotic cream on it and bandage it. i understand it will not be easy nut this is the only thing you can do to help him without seeing a vet.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 11th, 2019

    Poor Loki! He has to see a vet immediately for this problem, it will become infected if left untreated and getting dirt and sand in it. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Best of luck.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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