Torn nails in cats: causes, symptoms and treatment in Dubai

What do we mean by “torn nails”?

Normal cat nails:

• 5 nails on each front paw (including a dew claw)
• 4 nails on each back paw

Some cats have extra toes (polydactyly) and therefore have more nails at risk. They may also not wear normally because of an altered paw shape.

A cat’s nail has two main parts:

• Outer layer: tough keratin, like a human fingernail
• Quick: the sensitive inner section containing blood vessels and nerves

When the nail splits or tears into the quick, it’s painful and will likely bleed.

Common causes of torn nails

• Snagging a claw on carpets, furniture, or outdoor plants
• Awkward landings after jumping
• Overgrown nails, especially in indoor or less active cats
• Clipping nails too short during trimming
• Brittle nails in older cats

Symptoms of torn nails

Signs can vary depending on how badly the nail is damaged:

• Limping or refusing to put weight on the paw
• Holding up the paw or hiding away
• Constant licking or chewing at the paw
• Bleeding or small blood stains on the floor or bedding
• Crying, hissing, or reacting aggressively when the paw is touched
• Swelling or redness around the nailbed
• A nail that looks cracked, bent, or partly detached

Cats at a higher risk of torn nails

Any cat can break or tear a nail, but some are more prone:

• Older cats: nails become thicker and more brittle with age
• Less active cats: sedentary cats may have longer nails that are more likely to catch
• Indoor-living cats: nails don’t wear down naturally on soft furnishings or tiled floors
• Polydactyl cats: more toes and claws mean more potential for damage

Diagnosing torn nails

Your vet can usually diagnose a torn nail during a simple physical exam. Tests are rarely needed unless several nails are affected or your vet suspects an underlying problem.

Further tests:

• Nailbed biopsy: collecting a sample for laboratory testing
• Skin scrapes
• Blood and urine tests: checking general health
• Imaging: X-rays if trauma or bone damage are suspected

Veterinary treatment for torn nails

Treatment depends on the extent of the injury and whether infection is present.

• Cleaning the nail and controlling bleeding
• Removing the damaged portion of the nail: likely under sedation, where the quick is involved, and the paw is painful
• Bandaging the paw to protect the wound
• Prescribing pain relief medication
• Providing antibiotics if infection is present or likely

Most cats recover quickly after treatment, with the nail regrowing over the following weeks or months.

Home care for cats with torn nails

If you notice your cat has a torn nail:

• Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding: it should stop in less than 5 minutes
• Cornstarch or flour can help with clotting if bleeding continues
• Clean the paw with cooled boiled water and a pinch of salt (1 tsp salt in 500ml water)
• Keep the area clean and dry, and monitor for signs of infection
• Prevent licking or chewing by using a buster (cone) collar if needed
• Encourage rest until the paw is comfortable again

If the nail is still attached after 24–48 hours, or your cat seems to be in pain, book a vet appointment without further delay.

How to prevent torn nails in cats

• Check your cat’s nails once or twice a week
• Trim nails if they become too long, especially for indoor or older cats. Ask your vet to show you the correct method, or book regular nail trimming at the clinic
• Provide scratching posts and varied surfaces to encourage natural nail wear
• Keep your cat active and maintain a healthy, balanced diet for strong nails

When to worry

See your vet urgently if:

• The nail is still bleeding after 5 minutes
• Your cat is in obvious pain and won’t walk on the paw
• You notice swelling, pus, or a bad smell

Contact your vet for advice if:

• The nail has fallen off cleanly, but you’re unsure about infection and wound care
• You’d like guidance on safe nail trimming or prevention
• Your cat has repeated issues with brittle or broken nails

Are people or other pets at risk?

Torn nails are not contagious. The only concern is infection. If there’s pus or discharge, wash your hands after handling your cat’s paw or bandages.

Worried your cat has a torn nail?
Book a check-up or same-day appointment at Modern Vet Hospital in Dubai. Their experienced veterinary team can safely treat damaged claws, relieve your cat’s pain, and prevent infection. From emergency care to routine nail maintenance, Modern Vet Hospital is your trusted clinic in Dubai for professional, compassionate pet care.