It really isn’t that uncommon for a cat to tear a claw.  Sometimes their nails get caught especially if they are allowed to grow too long. My older cat, Mollie is always getting her claw stuck in something and when I hear a distressful “meow,” I get up and go rescue her. I carefully remove her stuck claw and she “happy” again.  If she tears the claw, a painful injury can result. If you notice your cat limping or bleeding, check her, she may have torn a claw.  If the claw is torn down close to the pad or your cat is bleeding, it’s probably a good idea to call your veterinarian. Even if your cat does not seem to be suffering, your veterinarian may suggest coming in for an office visit.  You don’t want to risk the toenail getting infected.  At an appointment, you veterinarian will likely examine the paw, remove the torn nail, bandage the cats foot and then prescribe a pet medication such as an anti-biotic.