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What is this black gunk around my cat's nails that always returns?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 12 lbs

My indoor cat has developed a black gunck around his nails. It does not seem to cause him any pain. He objects when I try to clean it off- but he objects to his feet being touched in general. The black seems to crust around his nails and is pressent when I push his nail out. It can be wiped away but always returns.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Susan England-Foster

Veterinarian

Published on September 21st, 2017

I would recommend taking Tiny to a local vet to have the nail beds examined closer. It is possible for cats to get flea dirt or even fungal disease around there nail bed. Your vet might need to take a sample and look under a microscope to determine the cause and help provide proper treatment. I hope that helps

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