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My cat's paw is bleeding and looks like a ripped claw. What do I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 10 lbs

My cats paw was bleeding when I came home and it looks like he ripped out his claw? He has severe separation anxiety and my other cat is at the vet for surgery. What would you recommend for this or does it look like he did something else to his paw? There is no nail- not sure what the large bloody thing is- can’t get close enough to figure it out. He is walking fine on it

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on October 19th, 2017

If it currently bleeding you can use some corn starch to help slow the bleeding. Also if you are able to place a light bandage on it to prevent him from licking it tonight that would be good. You can also use a cone collar which you can find at your local pet store if it is still open. I would take him to your vet first thing in the morning for an exam. He may need to have it cleaned, medicated and professionally wrapped. Your vet will also be able to provide antibiotics and pain meds if need. If it is profusely bleeding then I would take him to your local emergency clinic for attention tonight. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 4th, 2018

    He could die indeed, unfortunately there is nothing you can do, he needs antibiotics, pain killers and local disinfection of the wound. all of the treatment he needs require prescription medication that you cannot get without taking him to the vet, i do recommend trying to find a different vet, even if this means you will need to drive a little further, he needs to see a vet ASAP.

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 5th, 2017

    You do need to bring him to the vet but this can wait until your regular vet opens up in the morning, it's probably an access due to fighting outside, he will need to be checked, the area will need to be clipped and cleaned and he will be given antibiotic treatment. you will need to keep him inside for about a week until he recovers completely.

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