My cat is limping and her paw pad looks injured. What should I do?

Question

Hi there, My cat came home today limping and upon further inspection it seems as if her left metatarsal pad has come off? It just isn’t there anymore? She isn’t bleeding or anything, the area just looks pink and tender. I can’t find any information about this happening online and I can’t afford to go to the vet right now, is there any information I can get on what to do right now, and how this may affect her in the long term? I’ve put some saline on the area to disinfect it, and bandaged it. Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 3 years and 8 months old

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA · Accepted Answer

Without a picture, I am trying to imagine what you are seeing. I don’t think that the pad has come off, but it is possible that the tough part of the pad may have sloughed off or become damaged. This layer of skin will heal over time, though it can take several months. After a day or two of bandaging, I would remove the bandage and have Moo wear an e-collar/cone to prevent licking. She will need to stay inside while wearing it, and ideally she wears it 24/7 until the pad has healed.

My cat is limping and her paw pad looks injured. What should I do?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?

My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?

Share