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My cat has something embedded in its paw. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 7 lbs

The cat I'm caring for has a button embedded in its front right paw. My friend, the owner, doesn't have cell reception and is gone until Tuesday. Should I have her cat examined right away or wait until I can get instructions from her?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Susan England-Foster

Veterinarian

Published on July 8th, 2017

That appears to be an ingrown toe nail. The dewclaw nail can grow into a circle and into the paw pad. I would take it to the vet as soon as possible. This is very painful but also usually needs antibiotics due to infection.

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