Cat nails (also known as claws) grow slowly but can develop into a problem if not trimmed. These overgrown nails can wiggle into the paw pad, which makes walking difficult for your pet and may lead to infection.
Trimming your cat’s nails can be a stressful experience for many cats, so make the process as comfortable for them as possible. Keep in mind that even the most sociable cats will take time to become comfortable with nail trimming and that some cats might require multiple sessions before they are ready for it.
Getting Started
Like human nails, cat claws can get very long and cause problems for cats, including ripping up furniture or scratching people. Trimming your cat’s nails on a regular basis (every two to four weeks) can help minimize these problems and keep your cat comfortable.
Keeping up with nail care is also a great way to avoid scratches on your carpets and furniture. It’s especially helpful if you have an indoor cat who is not as active as outdoor cats.
Before you begin, it is important to build trust with your cat. Ideally, start by getting your cat accustomed to routine care and making it something they enjoy doing – at a quiet time of day that works for them.
If you have a kitty who is very uncomfortable in your lap, try wrapping them in a blanket or towel while you trim their claws. This will make them feel secure and let you focus on one paw at a time.
Once your cat is relaxed and comfortable in a position where they are protected, take them to a table or countertop to do the actual trimming. You may need a human helper to assist, and you should use an object that is safe for your cat, such as pliers-like clippers or ones with a sliding “guillotine” blade.
Preparation
A cat’s nails are different from human fingernails in that they grow in layers a bit like an onion. They also naturally have sharp points, which can become caught on furniture or carpets. Consequently, cats need to have their nails trimmed more often than other pets do.
Start by choosing a calm and quiet place for you and your cat to trim their claws. Avoid distractions by choosing a location that is away from windows and other pets, and don’t cut too near the quick (the pink part of the nail) as this can cause pain and bleeding for your cat.
Once you’ve found a position that is comfortable for you and your cat, pick up one of their paws and rest it gently in your hand. Be careful not to fold or bend their legs in an awkward way, or to strain your neck to see what you’re doing.
Eventually, your cat will become accustomed to having their paws handled in this manner. As a result, it should be easier to handle each paw, and the process will go faster.
In addition to a pair of sharp nail clippers, you’ll need styptic powder or cornstarch in case you accidentally cut the quick (this happens less frequently with cats than dogs), and a tasty treat for your pet to reward them.
Trimming
A cat’s nails are always growing, so you may need to trim them on a regular basis to keep them short and avoid injury. Longer nails can also curl over your cat’s paw pads and cause an infection.
If you’re not sure if your cat’s nails are long enough to need trimming, ask your vet for help. They will be able to tell you whether your cat’s nails need to be trimmed, and can recommend a good groomer near you.
Before you begin clipping, try to get your cat used to the process in a relaxing and quiet space. Ideally, you’ll have your cat in your lap with one or both front paws facing away from you.
When your cat is comfortable, take a nail in your hand and gently press it on the pad until it extends a bit. If it needs to be trimmed, cut only the sharp tip and make sure not to cut the quick, which is the pink fleshy part of your cat’s nail that contains nerves and blood vessels.
Once you’ve trimmed the nail, quickly release it and give your cat a treat. Repeat until all of your cat’s nails have been trimmed. Remember, you and your cat will need a lot of patience and reward-based training to get them to tolerate the process!