Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat's claw split after trimming and is bleeding. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Ragdoll | Male | neutered | 20 lbs

After trimming my cat's claws I noticed him chewing on one of his paws, a claw on his front left paw was split in two spots. One thin piece hung off of one side and a thicker piece is hanging off of the opposing side. I was able to easily take off the first piece but I can see blood between the second piece and claw. He's clearly uncomfortable and agitated by the torn claw but I'm not sure what I should do.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 12th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about your kitty. It is difficult to see exactly what is going on in this photo, but split toenails can be painful for sure! Most often we try to cut the nail back as far as possible. In some cases we may need to sedate a pet to remove the portion that is torn, in other instances if it is only loosely attached we can remove it with a firm tug of hemostats. In some cases we may need to prescribe pain medication and we need to monitor the nail closely for infection such as swelling of the nail bed, redness of the toe, yellow or green discharge from the nail. If the nail is painful and you aren't able to remove the split portion, a trip to your vet's office is recommended. Best of luck with Archimedes!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 11th, 2017

    I would get kit Kat in to see you vet as soon as you can to treat this properly. Not only is it painful but with it split open, it is prone to infection. In most cases, they have to be sedated to get the nail cut back effectively. I would recommend you take him in and have the nail cut back and get kit Kat on an antibiotic so it does not become infected.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored