Cutting a cat's nails is a relatively simple procedure, however, it is important to take into account some basic premises to do it correctly. safely and without affecting the welfare of the feline. Likewise, we must know that for him it is a very uncomfortable procedure, so we must also assess whether it is necessary.
In this article on our site we will explain how to trim a cat's nails step by step, and we will also offer you some important tips, we will solve related doubts and we will show you a video tutorial so that you can learn how to cut a cat's nails correctly.
Is it good to trim a cat's nails?
Wild felines, like feral cats, spend most of the day resting, marking, moving, and hunting. These behaviors naturally promote nail wear, however, in the case of domestic felines, we observe that certain behaviors typical of the species are not carried out carried out, or carried out to a lesser extent, to the point where they present the long and unworn nails
Although in most cases it is not advisable to cut the cat's nails, since it is a routine that he must carry out himself, sharpening them on posts, scratching posts and trees, when this does not happen we can determine that it is good to cut a cat's nails, always in a moderate and careful way
When to cut a cat's nails?
We can cut the cat's nails when we observe that does not perform the scratching behavior naturally, but also when we notice thatthe nails are very long At this point it will be possible to observe them even when they are retracted and the feline will feel discomfort that will prompt him to scratch all kinds of surfaces to remove the outer layers and wear them down.
Another frequently asked question is when can a baby cat's nails be trimmed. If we have a puppy at home in the middle of the socialization stage (between two weeks and two months of life) it is time to cut a cat's nails for the first time, always using positive reinforcement, so that he gets used to this routine and accepts it as one more in his day to day.
What can I trim my cat's nails with?
Before starting with the step by step where you will learn how to cut a cat's nails correctly, it is important to highlight that it will be essential to use specific scissors for cats, if possible with insurance, otherwise we could inadvertently hurt the cat. We will also choose the smallest scissors.
But in addition to using specific scissors to cut the cat's nails, it is also recommended to have styptic powder, sold at veterinary clinics and pharmacies, a very useful tool to stop bleeding in case of an accident.
How to cut a cat's nails step by step
Follow this step by step to trim a cat's nails:
- Ask a family member or friend to help you Hold the cat so it doesn't move.
- Gently press down on the retractable nail to fully extend it.
- Look closely at the nail to see the vascularized tissue, similar to a pink, red or dark line.
- If the cat's claw is black and the tissue is not visible, do not cut it under any circumstances.
- Cut between 1 and 2 millimeters of nail, taking special care to avoid severing the vein.
- Repeat the procedure on all the cat's nails.
Remember that you must be especially careful when trimming the nail, because in the case of cutting the vein we can cause a hemorrhage, which in addition to pain can cause fear and even a trauma in our cat, which will make it appear scared or aggressive in the following nail trimming sessions.
How to cut a cat's nails? - YouTube Video
Have you been left with doubts? Below we show you a very complete step-by-step video from our site's YouTube channel so you know how to cut a cat's nails correctly:
10 tricks to cut cat nails
Now you know how to cut a cat's nails, but we will also show you some extra tricks that you can use to make this procedure more comfortable and simple:
- Regularly touch your cat's pads and nails to get him used to handling.
- Avoid cutting your cat's nails when he is especially active or stressed, it is preferable to choose a time when he is calm.
- Make him associate the nail trimming routine in a positive way through caresses, nice words, cuddles and you can even use pheromones for cats.
- Wrap your cat like a burrito with the help of a towel (not too tight) to make it easier to handle. You should only do this in an emergency, as it usually causes a lot of stress and anxiety in the feline.
- If possible, start this routine early, when the cat is still a puppy.
- If your cat is very uncomfortable, it is preferable that you do short sessions several times a day or week. The important thing is that the feline is as comfortable as possible.
- Do not force your cat if he tries to bite or scratch you, at the end of the post we will explain what to do with an aggressive cat or that won't let his nails be cut
- Under no circumstances should you scream, scold or punish your cat, that will only worsen the situation, generating unnecessary stress and causing breakage of bond with you.
- Do not use scissors that are not specific for cats, as you could unintentionally over-cut.
- Be very patient and positive, because sometimes several sessions are required until the cat allows the nails to be trimmed correctly.
How often do you trim a cat's nails?
It is not easy to determine how often to cut the cat's nails, as this will depend on the growth rate of the nail itself, the cat's activity and wear. As we have explained before, we must pay attention to its nails when it is at rest: if they stick out, our cat needs to be trimmed.
In general we could trim the cat's nails every three or four weeks.
When to go to the vet to cut the cat's nails?
If we have doubts about the procedure, the feline has black nailsor is very aggressive, we can visit our veterinarian to cut the cat's nails. The professional will explain the step by step to follow, in addition, he will have the necessary material to stop the bleeding in case of excess.
In the event that we want to visit a veterinarian, we are likely to ask ourselves how much does it cost to cut a cat's nails In Spain, In general terms, the rate is between €15 and €30, although the final price may vary depending on the centre, the veterinary insurance and other factors.
We will end this section by pointing out that declawing (also known as onychitectomy), the practice that consists of completely removing the cat's nails with surgery, is totally discouraged and even prohibited in some countries. In addition to causing pain and anxiety in the feline, declawing prevents him from carrying out marking behavior normally, which is essential for proper well-being.
How to cut the nails of an aggressive cat?
It is very common to observe that the cat does not allow its nails to be cut, but then, how to cut the nails of a surly cat? We will not cut them. We must carry out several sessions beforehand so that he positively associates the nail clipper, the handling and the entire procedure.
Follow this step by step on a cat that won't let its nails be cut:
- We will start working on handling on a daily basis, as we have already mentioned, touching the pads, extending the nails and getting the cat used to this process. We will use verbal reinforcement, caresses and the voice, as it is very important that the cat feels comfortable.
- We will continue positivizing the nail clipper, leaving it within your reach for you to sniff. It may be interesting to place it on a properly closed floor (so that the cat does not get hurt) and spread some treats of its liking nearby. We will repeat these sessions several times until the cat is not scared or uncomfortable with this tool.
- We will make close-ups with the nail clipper, without actually cutting them, so that he gets used to the routine. Once again we will continue to carry out sessions until the cat is completely comfortable and safe by our side. Finally we will proceed to cut
Following this step by step we will be able to cut the nails of a cat that won't let go, however, if we have worked this procedure for a minimum of two weeksand we do not observe any type of progress, it may be advisable to use pheromones, natural tranquilizers or, directly, go to the veterinarian and consult with him about the options to follow or management guidelines.
