The Ultimate Guide to Cat Nail Clipping

Without trimming, a cat’s nails (aka claws) will become long, curved, and sharp unless your cat spends lots of time outside using a door from Ideal Pet Products. A nail trim lets you inspect your feline’s nails to ensure they’re healthy. It’s not the easiest thing to do, but this guide will help you along.

Supplies

All you really need is a nail trimmer. You can use a human fingernail clipper, which is often the easiest, or a guillotine type. If a cat’s nail is so long it curls, a scissors-type clipper will be needed to prevent the nail from cutting the toepad.

Preparing Your Cat

Cats tend to run away at the sight of nail clippers; they’re not the most appreciated pet products. Start introducing your cat to the idea as a kitten, sitting it on your lap in a quiet room. Gently massage a paw and maintain light contact if it pulls away. While she’s still, press lightly so the nail extends out.

At first, release the paw afterward and give your cat a treat. Introduce her to the clippers while she’s on your lap, and massage one toe but place a piece of uncooked spaghetti into the tool. Clip the spaghetti when the nail extends, release, and offer a treat.

Safe Clipping Techniques

Trim only the light-colored part of the claw. Avoid cutting the pink section, or quick, where there are nerves and blood vessels. Don’t trim all the claws at once; do one or two in a sitting or as much as your cat allows. Move slowly with the trimmer perpendicular to the nail where it starts to curve. If you can’t see the quick, cut less to be on the safe side.

How to Stop Bleeding

If you trimmed a nail too short, the bleeding usually stops in a few minutes. Styptic powder or pencil can be used if your cat stays still long enough.

Bonus Supplies for Healthy Nails

Accessories that can help maintain your cat’s nails include scratch posts and surfaces. Ideal pet doors can help as well, as being outside can enable your cat to maintain its claws naturally. At Australia Pet Doors, we have the complete line, so place your order or call +61-437-644-330 for assistance.