Nail problems in cats are common and have many different causes. Most nail problems are straightforward to diagnose and do not need emergency treatment. The prognosis for nail problems is generally good, though some may need lifelong treatment. The most common causes of nail problems are trauma, allergies, and infections. Speak to a vet if you have any concerns about your cat's nails.
CausesBroken or torn nails due to trauma
Ingrown nails: when the nail curls around on itself and starts to grow into the paw pad.
Bacterial infections: usually secondary to an underlying allergy, an ingrown nail, or trauma. They may also occur with conditions such as diabetes.
Ringworm: a fungal infection that can cause nail problems.
Immune-mediated disease: Pemphigus foliaceus is the most common auto-immune problem that affects the nails of cats. The main sign is crusting at the nail bed.
Allergies, food and environmental
Nutritional problems such as a zinc deficiency
Tumours: The most common are squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and mast cell tumours.
Risk
Very active and outdoor cats are more likely to get torn or broken nails.
Less active and older cats are more prone to ingrown nails.
Older cats are more at risk of tumours
Symptoms
Limping and difficulty walking
Lethargy and reduced appetite
Licking, chewing or biting at the nail or paw
Pain around the nail or paw
Discharge, such as pus or blood around the nail
Swelling or redness around the nail bed or paw
Broken, thickened or misshapen nails
Nails that are brittle and break easily
Changes to the colour of the nail
Diagnosis
A physical exam may be all that is needed. Further tests may include:
Examination under sedation or general anaesthesia
Skin or nail scrapes to check for parasites or fungal infections
Samples of any discharge for culture or cytology
Biopsy of the nail or skin around it
Investigations into allergies, such as a diet trial or intradermal skin testing
Blood tests to check for underlying diseases such as diabetes or kidney disease
Imaging, such as x-rays or CT. This is often the case if a tumour is suspected, to check for spread.
Treatment
Vet treatments may include one or more of the following:
Clipping or removing the damaged nail, usually under sedation
Cleaning wounds
Antimicrobials, such as antibiotics or antifungal medication
Pain relief
Anti-inflammatory medication
Bandaging the paw
Surgery, such as toe amputation, if a tumour is involved
Specific treatment for underlying diseases such as immune-mediated conditions, allergies, or diabetes. Further treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, may be possible for tumours.
What to expect
Many conditions that affect the nails are easy to treat and often resolve quickly. There are some that may require long-term treatment.
Prevention
Keep your cat's nails at the appropriate length; this may involve regular trips to get them trimmed
Make sure your cat is on a complete diet to avoid deficiencies of essential vitamins and minerals
Check your cat's paws and nails regularly, at least 1-2 times per week, for any abnormalities.
Keep your cat up to date with regular parasite preventatives
Keep your cat at a healthy body condition