Cats need to have their nails trimmed regularly, as this helps keep them healthy. Trimming also reduces the amount of damage done to your furniture and rugs.
Like people and dogs, cats’ nails have a sensitive area called “the quick” that contains nerves and blood vessels. Cutting this part can be painful and cause bleeding.
Nail Trimming
Whether you’re trying to clip your own cat’s nails at home or have to go to the vet for nail trimming, it’s important to make this process as stress-free as possible. This will make the experience much more positive for both you and your cat.
Before you start a trim, you should get your cat used to having their feet handled. Massage their paws regularly, speak softly and reward them with treats to help them become relaxed about the experience.
Once your cat is comfortable with having their paws touched and held, slowly work down their legs and hands. If you notice they are getting nervous or uncomfortable, stop the trimming and try again later.
If you accidentally cut into the quick, apply styptic powder to stop the bleeding. This is available at most pet supply stores.
It may take a few days to trim all of your cat’s nails, but it will be worth the effort! Remember to have patience, keep the process short and reward your cat for good behavior.
Claw Covers
Claw covers are a painless and non-toxic alternative to declawing your cat. They also help minimize scratching damage to furniture and upholstery, which is a common problem in most homes.
A good quality claw cover should match the natural shape of your cat’s nails, provide a comfortable gap between the cap and the claw tip, and be glued to the nail properly. Incorrect application or sizing can interfere with the movement of your cat’s claws, affect their natural growth, and cause irritation to your kitty.
You can purchase nail caps from a variety of manufacturers, but most people choose Soft Paws. They offer kits that contain 40 nail caps, adhesive, and applicator tips for under $15.
Claw Clippers
Nail clippers are a convenient tool for cat owners to have on hand. These easy-to-use scissors can be used to trim cat nails and remove claws from furniture and other surfaces.
A good pair of nail clippers should have sharp blades that stay sharp and last a long time. They should also have a safety guard or locking mechanism that prevents you from cutting too deep into your cat’s nails.
Before you trim a cat’s nails, get them used to the clippers by slowly and carefully introducing them to the process. Start by getting them into a quiet, comfortable place where they can relax and be alone — naptime is usually best for this.
Then, pick up one of your cat’s paws and hold it gently in your non-dominant hand. Now, gently squeeze to extend the nail and note where the quick is (a darker area inside the nail). Never cut to the quick because it can bleed.
Nail Care Products
There are many nail care products out there that are designed to help your cat keep their nails in tip-top shape. One of the most popular is nail caps, which are tiny plastic covers that you glue over your cat’s claws.
Aside from minimizing damage caused by sharp claws, nail caps also help cats avoid over-extension and painful inflammation of their paw pads. These durable covers are easy to apply and last about six weeks.
Choosing the right size is crucial, and should be based on your cat’s weight. Make sure the cap is a comfortable fit for their claws and has enough glue to hold it in place.
Trimming your cat’s nails doesn’t have to be a daunting task if you’re patient and use positive reinforcement with treats and games. If your cat is resistant, try using a towel or a helper to make the process go more smoothly. Always have styptic powder or cornstarch handy in case you accidentally cut the quick (this is where blood and nerve supplies live) while trimming their nails.