Cat Health: Swollen Paw

Cat Health: Swollen Paw

A swollen paw can mean a number of different things: An infection with or without an abscess, an insect bite, or sting, or tissue damage.

While it is wise to contact your veterinarian in the case of a swollen paw, it is even more important to do so if the paw is painful and warm to the touch.

Bee stings can cause quite a dramatic swelling but is usually not very painful. The swelling is a allergic reaction and usually abates within 24 hours or less unless it gets infected.

Cats, with their natural instinct to bat at bugs and anything that moves, are more prone to being stung on their paws than dogs.

Other insect stings such as those from spiders and scorpions can also produce swelling but will also be accompanied by pain, and sometimes necrosis which means that the tissue in the area of the bite dies setting up a serious risk for infections and pain as nerve tissue in the area dies. Thus, it is always advisable to call your veterinarian. Early treatment is key. A swollen paw is always case for concern.

Puncture wounds can also cause swelling along with an infection, or abscess. Heat usually indicates either inflammation or an infection both which should be treated sooner rather than later.

Overgrown or overly short toe nails. If overgrown, the nail might have broken off after being too long and getting infected, or if the nail twists causing toe arthritis or swollen joints. If too short, perhaps the toe got infected from being clipped too close to the quick.

Sprains, dislocations, and broken bones, which might have occurred from an accident with a car or while exercising. You would probably know if this had happened but then again, if you have a cat that goes outside by herself, it is impossible to tell.

When in doubt, it is always wise to consult with your veterinarian about your cat swollen paw.