As well as filling our lives with joy and occasional bafflement, our feline friends also present us with some rather challenging responsibilities!
Nail-trimming is perhaps the most daunting of all.
But as with brushing your cat, clipping and trimming the nails are important elements of grooming that help to maintain our cats’ health and comfort.
Left unattended, those sharp little claws can cause big problems.
For example, your cat might unintentionally scratch you, your family members, or indeed a cherished piece of furniture.
What’s more, overgrown nails can curl back and grow into your cat’s paw pads leading to pain, infection and potential mobility issues.
So to protect you, your love ones and pet feline from injury and also to to protect your curtains from being shredded, we’ve put together this guide.
The Quick and the Shred – Understanding Nail Anatomy
Our feline friends possess a unique nail anatomy that’s essential for you to understand before grasping the nail trimmer.
Although the nail actually looks solid, the interior comprises a sensitive vein known as the “quick.”
The quick is a bundle of nerves and blood vessels that are highly sensitive.
Accidentally cutting into this area will cause your cat pain and may lead to bleeding. So it’s basically a “no-trim zone”
How to Spot the Quick
Spotting the quick in your cat’s nails isn’t too complicated. In cats with lighter nails, the quick is often pinkish and set against the rest of the whiter claw.
If your cat has darker nails, locating the quick can be a tad more challenging.
But with careful inspection under good light, you should be able to discern it as a slightly darker, shadowy area within the nail.
How Often Should You Trim Your Cat’s Nails
Cats’ nails grow at different rates and are influenced by factors like age, diet and overall health.
Generally-speaking, most felines require a trim from every ten to 14 days.
But, it’s important to factor in lifestyle as well.
If your cat is an outdoor adventurer he might naturally wear down their nails on trees, fences or by catching their prey.
But if your cat spends its day lounging on your carpet or snoozing on the couch, the nails aren’t going to experience much wear and tear.
So more frequent trimming may be necessary.
The best way to figure out a nail-trimming schedule is to keep a close eye on your kitty’s claws.
Should you notice them getting sharp or your cat starts to ‘click-clack’ on hard floors, it’s probably time for a trimming session.
Choosing the Right Nail Trimmer/Clipper
No manicurist would be complete without the right tools. And in our present context, we’re talking about a cat nail trimmer.
But before you go grabbing any old pair of scissors, please stop! We strongly recommend that you use a proper cat nail trimmer.
Choosing an appropriate nail trimmer will make the process go far more smoothly.
There are three main types: guillotines, scissors and grinders.
Guillotine Nail Clipper
These types of trimmers have a hole where you insert the cat’s nail. As you squeeze the handle a blade slides across to cut the nail.
They’re very easy to use, but might not be the best choice for larger cats with thicker nails.
Scissor Nail Trimmers
Shaped just like regular scissors, scissor nail trimmers cut in a straight line and are usually good for cats of all shapes sizes.
They often provide a clean, quick cut and are easy to control.
Grinder Nail Clipper
These are electric and gently grind down the cat’s nail instead of cutting it.
If your cat can tolerate the noise and vibration, they’re great for achieving a smooth finish.
But keep in mind that, grinders take longer to use and may require more patience from both you and your cat.
Each of the above cat trimmers has its pros and cons.
When choosing, consider your cat’s size, the thickness of their nails and their tolerance for noise and vibration.
You should also select a trimmer that you feel comfortable handling.
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Preparation for Nail Clipping
So what about the prep? To begin with, you’ll need your cat to feel comfortable with you touching his paws.
A lot of cats aren’t overly fond of people fiddling with their feet.
So as to avoid a visit to your local A&E department, start with gentle strokes along the paws when interacting.
Once you’re confident enough, gradually start pressing the pads to extend the nails out.
The key here is patience and positive reinforcement. Celebrate little wins with treats and loads of praise.
Next up, set the mood. Create a calm and peaceful environment that won’t cause any alarm.
Avoid high-traffic areas of your home and find a quiet, well-lit space where both you and your cat will feel relaxed.
Finally, make nail trimming a positive experience by incorporating rewards.
Most cats will do anything for a tasty treat or their favorite toy.
Using these rewards before, during and after the process can make nail trimming a much more enjoyable process.
Remember, preparation is half the battle! It might take a little time, but these steps can really help to ensure a stress-free trimming session.
Safely Trimming Your Cat’s Nails – A Step by Step Guide
Right, so here it is. You’re about to become your cat’s personal nail stylist. Here are the key steps.
1. Settling Your Cat
The first step is ensuring your cat feels at ease.
Some cats feel more relaxed on their owner’s lap while others prefer a flat surface like a table.
This is going to depend on your cat’s personal preferences.
Remember to place a soft towel beneath your cat for or added comfort.
Ultimately, the aim is to have you both in a relaxed and stable position where you can clearly see and access their nails.
2. Spotting the Quick
With gentle pressure on your cat’s paw pad, extend the nail.
For lighter nails, the quick will show as a pink section inside the nail, while for darker ones, it’ll appear as a shadowy area.
It’s vital to only clip the pointed end of the nail, steering clear of the quick.
3. Holding the Trimmer
Get used to your chosen trimming tool, ensuring that your familiar with its mechanism before starting the process.
It might help to practice on a piece of spaghetti to get a feel for the cutting pressure.
4. Clipping the Nail
Now for the main act. Hold your cat’s paw in a secure yet gentle grip and cut off the sharp tip of one nail, avoiding the quick.
After each successful trim, release your cat’s paw and reward it with a treat or a comforting stroke before proceeding to the next nail.
5. In Case of Quick-Cutting
If you accidentally cut into the quick, try not to worry. Although there might be a little blood, it’s not going to be life-threatening.
Use styptic powder or a styptic pen if you have one to stop the bleeding, and be sure to give your kitty some extra love.
Patience is key in this process. If you can’t trim all nails at once, that’s absolutely fine.
It’s better to have a stress-free cat and trim a few nails at a time than to force a full pedicure in one go.
With time, both you and your cat will grow more comfortable with the routine!
Overcoming Challenges
Even with the best preparation and intentions, trimming your cat’s nails might not always go as smoothly as planned.
Here are some tips on tackling typical obstacles that may come your way.
Nervous and Anxious Cats
Some cats will not take too kindly to having their nails trimmed and may squirm, hide or even become defensive.
The key is to create positive associations with the process.
Start slow, perhaps just touching the paws initially and reward them with treats or their favorite toy.
With time, your nervous cat should become more comfortable.
Finding the Quick in Dark Nails
It can be tough to see the quick in cats with darker nails. A flashlight held behind the nail can help you locate it.
If you’re still unsure, it’s safer to just trim the very tips of the nails to avoid accidentally cutting the quick.
Dealing with Bleeding
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might cut into the quick. Although it’s never nice to see blood, don’t panic.
As mentioned, use styptic powder or a styptic pen to stop the bleeding. If it continues for more than a few minutes, contact your vet.
Accepting Your Cat’s Limits
Some cats will never become comfortable with home nail trimming. That’s okay!
There’s certainly no shame in seeking professional help. Indeed, many vets as well as pretty much all groomers offer nail trimming services.
Alternatives to Nail Trimming
Although practical and an essential part of feline care, nail trimming is not going to be an option in some cases.
Thankfully, there are a couple of alternatives to do-it-yourself nail trimming,.
Scratching Posts – One of the most natural alternatives to nail trimming is the use of scratching posts or boards. Cats naturally love to scratch – it helps them to stretch their bodies, mark their territory, and keep their nails in check.
The abrasive surface of a scratching post or board can help to file down your cat’s nails.
Soft Nail Caps – these are small plastic caps that you can apply to your cat’s nails. They’re typically easy to install, safe and come in various sizes and fun colors.
Once applied, they’ll protect your skin and belongings from your cat’s claws.
Be sure to check with your vet before using them, though. They won’t be suitable for every cat.
Professional Grooming Services – if you can’t face the prospect of trimming your cat’s nail, you might want to contact the professionals.
Many vets and professional groomers offer cat nail trimming services. They’re experienced, quick and know how to handle even the most reluctant cats.
