Claw Disorders in Cats

These conditions can cause chipped, cracked, brittle, and ingrown nails, limping, and masses or sores on the paws
Claw disorders include traumatic injuries, infections, cancers, or autoimmune conditions
Diagnostics include a physical examination, imaging, biopsy, bloodwork, and cytology
Treatments vary, and may include oral medications, topical ointments, and surgery
Prognosis varies depending on the underlying cause, but many claw disorders have a favorable prognosis with appropriate treatment

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A closer look: Claw Disorders in Cats

Claw disorders can affect one or more claws across one or more paws. Illnesses that affect the entire body, such as autoimmune disorders, are more likely to affect multiple claws on multiple paws. Localized conditions such as traumatic injury may only affect one claw or one foot. Symptoms that occur suddenly are more likely due to traumatic injuries or infections, whereas tumors or autoimmune disorders develop more slowly.

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Risk factors

Claw disorders are uncommon in cats. The severity of claw disorders depend on the underlying cause, which requires diagnosis by a veterinarian.

Any cat with a claw disorder requires prompt veterinary attention.

Possible causes

Conditions associated with claw disorders include

Traumatic injuries, including broken claws

Ingrown nails or other deformities

Infections

Tumors

Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Cats Melanoma in Cats Autoimmune Skin Disease (Pemphigus) in Cats

Lupoid onychodystrophy

Burned paw pads

Parasitic infections

Poor nutrition

Intestinal disorders

Main symptoms

Symptoms of claw disorders include

Oozing from nail beds, such as pus

Pustules and open sores

Limping (Lameness) in Cats Swollen Toes (Paw Pads) in Cats

Excessive grooming

Color changes to the claws

Excessively brittle nails

Cracked, broken, or chipped nails

Testing and diagnosis

Diagnosis is aimed at identifying the underlying disease affecting the claws or toes.

Diagnostics include:

A physical examination
Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or ultrasound
Cytology
Biopsy
Bloodwork

Steps to Recovery

Treatment depends on the underlying condition, and varies widely, including:

Oral medication, such as antibiotics or steroids
Surgery, which may include removal of a toe or claw
Topical medications, such as antibiotics
Pain management
Use of an Elizabethan collar to prevent irritation and licking of the area

The prognosis for claw disorders varies depending on claw disorder identified and timeliness of intervention. Many conditions affecting the claws have a favorable prognosis with appropriate treatment. If a cat’s claw is broken off, it can take several months to grow back.

Prevention

Regular examination of a cat’s paws can help identify claw disorders early, allowing for prompt treatment. Claw disorders are not contagious, but some infections associated with claw disorders may be transmissible between cats.