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My cat's red toe has pus and a strange claw-like growth. What is it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years and 4 months old | 15 lbs

I adopted a declared cat 2 years ago and I just noticed that her front toe looks really red, I looked closer and it looks like there is a claw growing in. I squeezed it a little to get a better look and bloody puss came out, I tried to look again to see if I could get pictures but she bit my finger a little and meowed to tell me it hurt. What is happening?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 30th, 2017

Please keep in mind that without seeing Eartha in person I can't say this for sure, but I'm wondering if what you are seeing is part of her bone. It may be that she injured the area leading to opening of the skin and the bone sticking out. The claw doesn't grow back when it's removed, but it could be that all of the claw wasn't removed properly and that's what you are seeing. The pus indicates it's infected. I would have her seen by a vet for this as soon as possible. She will need antibiotics for the infection, and the vet can diagnose exactly what you are seeing and how best to treat it. Keep her foot as clean and dry as possible until you see a vet, and put an Ecollar on her to keep her from licking her food (I will put a link below on how to make one at home). Don't squeeze it again, and keep her indoors if she is allowed outside. You might want to tape a sock over her foot to keep litter from getting into the area. I hope this helps! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ffR-LzyW1M

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