What is this hard object on my cat's underside? Is it a claw?

Hello, and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It’s difficult to tell for sure what’s going on without examining Timmy myself, but from the appearance of that discharge in the photo I’m concerned Timmy may have an infection in that nail bed. This could happen after trauma, or if he punctured his foot on something sharp. I recommend having Timmy seen by a vet, as he may need a course of antibiotics. It’s also possible he has a mass growing on that toe, but that would be considered less likely at his young age. I hope this helps!

HI, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I have seen some cats develop long horny type growths on their paw pads. Possible causes are: papilloma or squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen's disease), both caused by papillomavirus. Excision or treatment with imiquimod, retioid cream, or salicylic acid should be effective. If it doesn't bother Spooky, it most likely won't hurt to leave it alone (unless it becomes more malignant in behavior). It could also be benign hyperkertinized growths. They may need to be managed with sanding dows and or clipping regularly. You can also try Kerasol which is OTC or Snout Soother by American Dog co to help keep them soft. You can apply this 1-2 times daily. It may be best to have your Vet see the area first! Good luck

Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. From the picture it looks as though it Mau be a cyst that ruptured and dried on the fur. I would have this examined by a veterinarian to ensure there is no infection and to help give you a better answer after physically examining ming to give you the appropriate treatment recommendations. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.

This looks like a cutaneous horn which is a keratin growth from the paw pad. I would consider having this removed and having the growth sent for histopathology as it could be benign or caused by cancerous process.

It’s difficult to see exactly what that is in the photo. I would try to pull it out if it’s moveable. You can also soak the paw in warm water with epsoms salt or an antibacterial solution. As long as she’s not lame I’m not overly concerned about it. Some cats get a callus on their pads, and some have an extra underdeveloped toenail, either of which could be her issue. If she becomes lame or this is painful then please take her in for an exam. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Lucy.

This lump/bump/growth should be ideally examined by your local vet to have a diagnosis established. Your vet may want to perform an FNA (fine needle aspiration) or a biopsy to sample the bump and determine its underlying nature. Differentials would include infections, a skin cyst, benign or more malignant type of tumors. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

It's not related to the conjunctivitis, but cats can grown corns on the bottom of their feet. They can be removed if they grow large enough to cause discomfort, which this one might be. If it is removed, I recommend having it submitted for biopsy to make sure it's something benign and not a rare cancerous growth.