Dr. Dan Christian specializes in small animal medicine, with special interests in behavior and nutrition. He has been instrumental in establishing animal behavior residencies for veterinarians at leading veterinary schools and developing innovative programs with veterinary organizations in the United States. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Animal Hospital Association, and the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association. During his professional career, Dr. Christian earned the American Association of Feline Practitioners Award. He has also appeared as a guest on television and radio pet health programs nationwide, and to has authored numerous articles for pet health magazines.

Q: About three weeks ago my cat broke off one of claws on his back paw. It bled only a little and he did not favor his back paw. After the claw was broken, it appeared to be turning a dark color, but it was not affecting him in any way. I let him go outside every few days and today he came in favoring his back paw. The pink skin around his claw was a little puffy, but it has not been leaking any pus. What should I do?

A: All of us cat owners have undoubtedly seen a torn or splintered nail in our feline friends at some time or another. Since cats take great pride in their claws, keeping them sharpened and clean at all times, it does set them up for catching a claw on something, and then tearing or even breaking them.

Often this goes unnoticed, and the claw regrows to its former shape and strength. Sometimes, however, the claw will be broken to the quick and may even bleed. When this happens, swelling and infection may set in, and this requires special veterinary attention.

Since cats are so stoic with pain, don't let the fact that he's not limping fool you. Any swelling or discoloration means the cat must be examined by your veterinarian so that the claw does not regrow incorrectly and create permanent disfigurement (and possibly, ongoing pain) for your cat.