QuestionMy kitten has a swollen foot, he is an outdoor cat. He has no visible wounds but he seems to be limping around quite a lot and holding the swollen paw up as well. He seems to be in quite a bit of pain when somebody touches it only slightly. I am taking him to the vets in the morning, but I am just wondering if you have any suggestions on what i can do to make him a bit more comfortable? Thank-you.
AnswerHi Chantelle. If there is no visible wound, then the only safe thing you could do to help right now that may reduce pain is a cold compress. An ice pack wrapped in a cloth held to his paw for 5-10 minutes can help reduce swelling. Not too many kittens are very cooperative with it, though! No warm compresses on a closed swelling unless a vet directs you to do so, as this can make swelling and inflammation worse. Other than that, just try to limit his mobility if you can. If you have a place to keep him inside, try to make sure there are no high places he can jump from to further injure his foot. Also, discourage play for now.