Cat Toenail Infections

Cats are susceptible to injury and exposure that will cause a nail infection. The infections occur when the claws are improperly cleaned, cared for, trimmed or become exposed to a fungus, such as ringworm. Treating cat nail bacterial and fungal infections is performed at home and through the help of a veterinarian.

  1. Cleaning Injured Claws

    • Injuries to a cat's claws are caused by fighting, catching the nails on objects or claws that are cut too closely to the nail bed. To treat an injured claw, apply pressure with a piece of sterile gauze or paper towel to stop the bleeding. Once the bleeding is under control, clean the wound with a solution of two parts water and one part hydrogen peroxide. Dry the wound carefully with paper towel or gauze and cover it with a light coating of baking soda to control further blood loss. Cover the wound with gauze and medical tape.

    Identifying and Treating Bacterial Infections

    • Signs of infected claws include pus drainage, heat emanating from the wound, swelling and an injury that will not heal. Once these signs are noticed, the cat must be taken to a veterinarian immediately for treatment. The vet will likely administer antibiotics, including doxycycline and tetracycline. Follow the veterinarian's instructions, and if the cat is unwilling to take the medication, hide it in wet cat food or drinking water. Clean and care for the wound according to the vet's instructions and help the wound heal by keeping the cat in a clean environment and providing it with a constant supply of fresh water.

    Identifying and Treating Fungal Infections

    • Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects a cat's paws and nails, according to Manhattan Cats. Signs of ringworm include obsessive scratching, the appearance of crust or grease on the nails, hair loss, redness and hyperpigmentation. Once ringworm is diagnosed it must be treated with a combination of specialized shampoos and oral medications. According to Manhattan Cats, topical creams are available but easily licked or wiped away by the cat. Ringworm spores must be cleaned from the cat's bedding, floors, carpets and any surfaces the cat comes in contact with. The cat must also be quarantined in a clean area for two to four weeks after treatment begins to prevent the spread of fungal infection to humans or other pets.

    Preventing Infection

    • Prevent bacterial infections by keeping the cat's wound clean and, if necessary, the use of an Elizabethan collar. The collars are placed around the cat's neck to prevent it from licking or biting the wound. The most effective way to prevent fungal infections in a cat's paws and claws is to keep the areas clean and dry and by keeping the feline away from infected animals, including those in grooming and boarding facilities.