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My cat is limping, and his paws are swollen and scabbed. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years and 8 months old | 12 lbs

I cant afford to take my cat to the vet (As I don't get paid for another week) but hes limping on both of his back paws, and hisses every time I go near him, One paw is swollen to the point it is almost purple, and the other is scabbed and looks as though what was one his pink toes is just a giant scab, what can I do? I've raised him since he had barely opened his eyes and he is precious to me, I am truly nervous.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 27th, 2017

Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. What you are describing sounds like feline plasma cell pododermatitis, which is an immune mediated disease. It could also be an infection or some other inflammatory process. Unfortunately, this likely needs veterinary care. A veterinarian should examine this so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. If you are having financial difficulties, I would recommend signing up for care credit online. You can use this to pay for veterinary care. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.

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    Answered By Daniela Jessen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 26th, 2018

    Hi, Lion's paw does seem to look swollen in the photo probably due to trauma. Especially when the cat is limping and in pain he should be checked by a vet sooner than later. The swelling can very possibly be an abscess (a pocket of puss) which are quite common in cats, other causes for swelling can be associated with a sprain, bruise or tendonitis as well as foreign body. the vet can give anti inflammatory pain killing support and antibiotics if infection present. In the meantime please restrict his movement ( do not let him go out if possible).

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