Cat Health: Swollen Paw
No doubt if you have a cat, especially a cat that spends time outdoors, you have or will at some point see your cat with a swollen paw. When it comes to cat health, a swollen paw is definitely something you don't want to ignore, but as with many things, it may not be something very serious.
There are many things that can cause your cat's paw to become swollen. Because of cat's instinctual nature to bat at bees and other insects, they are much more likely to get stung by a bee than their canine friends. A bee sting or other bug bite may cause the paw to become swollen. Usually this type of swelling feels somewhat firm to the touch rather than squishy and soft, and there will be some soreness. In most cases, the swelling will subside within a few hours up to a day.
If your cat has been in a fight with another cat, it is possible the swelling may be due to an abscess. This occurs when the wound becomes infected and filled with pus, and may require being drained by the vet. The soft tissue of your cat's paw could also be punctured by a foreign object such as a thorn. You may want to gently check the paw to see if there is a thorn or other sharp object there and try to gently remove it. Keep in mind, your cat may try to fight you because this can be very painful. It may require a trip to the vet to have the foreign object safely removed and the wound treated.
Another cause of swollen paws may be allergies. It can also be due to something more serious, such as lupus, which is an autoimmune disorder, or pitting edema. Pitting edema occurs when hormone problems or heart disease prevents proper fluid drainage. When any of these are the causes, more than one paw may be swollen, and a trip to the vet is definitely indicated to determine the diagnosis and best course of treatment.
If your cat has been in an accident, a swollen paw may be due to a sprain, dislocation, or a broken bone. If the bone is broken it will be extremely painful, and the swelling may be quite significant.
If your cat has an overgrown nail or if you have trimmed your cat's nails too short and too close to the quick, an infection can occur and cause the paw to swell. Never try to treat your cat with any kind of pain medication or unused antibiotics, as this could be dangerous or even fatal to your cat. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best plan of action.
With cat health, a swollen paw may be minor, but it also may be serious. Always take your cat to the vet as soon as possible if any of the following have occurred or are present. 1) If the cat has more than one swollen paw. 2) If your cat is unable to stand up, or is having difficulties with walking or going up stairs. 3) If you cat is dragging any of his legs. 4) If the swelling is squishy or soft to the touch. 5) If your cat exhibits any pain when jumping or moving around. 6) He is limping and it does not subside in a short period of time. 7) If the pads of his paw(s) have any burns, blisters, cuts or abnormalities. 8) He favors one leg, then another. 9) There are any broken, bleeding, or cracked nails. 10) If any of his legs is turned abnormally. 11) If he has recently had a fight with another animal.