Accepted Answer

It could be that there was an inflammatory reaction that precipitated the swelling that is still persisting, such as an insect bite, contact with a caustic substance, or maybe general grass or pollen allergies that have led to chronic licking of the paw (cat tongues are very rough, making persistent licking a common reason for non-healing wounds. Antibiotics alone only control infection, but have no antiinflammatory activity in the case of a reaction, and certainly cannot stop licking trauma.

It could also be that there is a foreign object imbedded in the paw, such as a tiny piece of glas or a tiny sharp metal object that is leading to persistent swelling, infection, and pain.

I would discuss with your vet about considering a cortisone injection for your kitty to try to get the assumption of an inflammatory reaction under control. For a case like this, I would prefer the long acting cortisone, depo-medrol, a compound that has activity for up to 4 weeks in cats. If she is licking, I would recommend [lacing an elizabethan collar to prevent more damage from licking. I would leave this on for 7-10 days.

Expert:	Roger L. Welton, DVM
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	1/7/2009

Veterinarian

Licensed Veterinarian, Practice Owner, and Book Author ("Canine and Feline 101")