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My cat's paw is bleeding. What should I do before her vet visit?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | 2 years and 6 months old

Hi today I woke up seeing my cat’s right paw bleeding. I really don’t know why maybe it’s because of a torn nail or something Also it’s hard for me to check it out as she really won’t let me. I am gonna take her to the vet tomorrow but is there anything I can do now?she seems fine and not in pain she just tries to lick it

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 15th, 2020

Poor Kitty. Try to apply gentle pressure to stop the bleeding. Put an Ecollar on her to keep her from licking it, as that can make it worse. You can make one at home or buy one at a pet store. Having her seen by a vet tomorrow is a good idea.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on November 14th, 2017

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I recommend that you keep a clean towel on top of the wound and have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. It is important to make sure she is not bleeding from a wound that for example requires further local therapy with wound closure. Good luck and best wishes!

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on April 13th, 2019

    If it has been 24 hours and the wound is large enough that it is still bleeding it is best to seek veterinary care immediately. The wound may need to be sutured to stop the bleeding and additional treatments or medications given to prevent infection.

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    Answered By Catherine Stecyk

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 17th, 2019

    Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It looks like Lucy may have a wound or a cut on her foot that is bleeding, which should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as you can get her there. A veterinarian can shave the fur from the area and examine the wound, and determine if it needs to be sutured or if it is something that will heal on its own. The vet can also prescribe antibiotics to help reduce the risk of infection, and pain medications to help Lucy feel better and in less pain. Please do not give any pain medications that are intended for humans to Lucy, as these can be fatally toxic to dogs. In the meantime, you can try gently wiping the area with a damp paper towel if Lucy will allow it to try to remove any debris. I hope this is helpful!

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