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My cat's paw was injured and he's favoring it. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 15 lbs

Last night Tiger got his paw stuck in the door, after we got him free we noticed it bled a bit, but otherwise he was putting weight on it and walking normally. He occasionally will clean it himself (and we have also been keeping it clean as best as possible) and today he seems to still favor it a bit, as in he walks on it but is careful with it. What should we do from here? Our biggest concern is a possibility for it to become infected.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 29th, 2019

Ouch, poor Tiger. Rest him today as much as possible. No running, jumping, or playing. Keep him indoors if he's allowed outside. If he still appears painful the morning, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to cats and are be fatal if given.

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