Cat Claw Fungus

Fungus invades a cat's claw when it remains in moist conditions and when damage to the nail bed allows the fungus to enter otherwise healthy tissue. Prompt treatment is essential because, if the infection remains untreated, removing the effected claws may become necessary to prevent secondary infection.

  1. Symptoms

    • Symptoms of a fungal infection in the claw include claw discoloration, or thickness, tenderness in the foot and swelling.

    Diagnosis

    • Typically, diagnosis is made by observing the effected area and visible symptoms. If the veterinarian determines the symptoms are consistent with fungal infection, they may scrape the area under the claw and the skin surrounding the claw and perform a bacterial and fungal analysis.

    Treatment

    • Topical antifungal ointment will be prescribed for the caretaker to apply to the effected area until the fungal infection is cured.

    Prevention

    • The best way to prevent fungus from invading the cat's nail bed is to clip the claws correctly. Never cut into the quick of the nail. Also, keeping the litter box clean and dry prevents harmful growth from growing in the area a cat most frequently scratches.