Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

I accidentally stepped on my cat's tail. Should I take him to the vet?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | 5 years and 7 months old

Hi I accidently stepped on my cats tail and he said meow and ran out I went after it and picked it up and gave it a big hug and lots of kisses and I gave him alot if treats I feel so guilty thou :( but after I gave him the treats he looked so happy and keep asking for more of course I gave it to him I love him he's my baby brother I feel so bad do you know how long it will hurt him do you think I should take him to a vet to get checked out Thankyou

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 8, 2019

You know him best. If you are worried there is no harm in taking him to the vet for an exam.

I can tell you that if the tail is truly injured usually they will hold it down between their back legs. If you notice him doing that then he should definitely see a vet. Otherwise he will probably be just fine!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

Health & Wellness

My cat's tail is drooping. Is it serious? Should I see a vet?

I would be concerned if the area is painful or she cannot hold the tail in a normal position as it may be injured or broken. It would be best to bring your cat to a vet ASAP to have the area examined, X-rayed for any breaks, and checked for any nerve or other injuries causing it.

Updated on September 23, 2025

Health & Wellness

My cat fell. Her tail looks flattened and painful. Should I see a vet?

Poor Sarah! It sounds like she may have injured her tail when she fell. I would recommend taking her to the vet for an exam. He/she can take x-rays if needed to check for any problems, and can also prescribe pain medication or anti-inflammatories for her if needed.

Updated on September 23, 2025

My kitten's tail got shut in a door and looks bent. What should I do?

Ouch, poor kitty! It could be his tail is broken from being shut in the door, and he needs to be checked out by a vet right away. Please take him into an ER vet clinic; if there isn't one in your area, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Best of luck.

Updated on September 23, 2025

Stepped on cat's tail, now it hurts and has a bump. What should I do?

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I'm so sorry this happened to Sweetie. If she will tolerate it, you can ice the tail for 5 minutes at a time, a few times a day for the next 2 days. There are no medications I can recommend you give. If after 2-3 days the tail still has the bump and seems painful then you should take her to your vet for an exam. She probably needs an x-ray to see if the tail has a fracture. I hope this helps. Best wishes.

Updated on September 23, 2025

My cat's tail was pinched in door, now it's tender. What to do?

Keep an eye on it and give it some time. If the pain gradually recedes and your cat acts fine, then good. If it remains painful, if it is set at an odd angle or if your cat is reluctant to move it, it the tail tip gets dry, hard or gets infected, then get him seen by your vet right away.

Updated on September 23, 2025

Health & Wellness

My cat's tail caught in door. Is it hurt? What signs should I watch for?

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Albhe. This happens more often than you realize! It's very important you do not give him any human pain medications. Many are toxic to cats and are fatal if given. I would keep a close eye on him to see if he has any pain. Pain can be shown by him keeping his tail limp, not moving it, lethargy, or a loss of appetite. If you see any of those signs, have him seen by a vet. I hope this helps.

Updated on September 23, 2025

My cat's tail was shut in door. Is it broken? He keeps it low now.

Poor Tas! This is a common injury, and can be quite painful. Please have him seen by a vet, as they should be able to help determine if there is a fracture based on a physical exam and x-rays, although other diagnostics may be needed. The vet can then treat appropriately, including pain management that is appropriate and safe for use in a cat, as pain medications made for humans can be very dangerous for cats, and pain medication should only be given on the advice of a veterinarian.

Updated on September 23, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share