Everyone who has a cat knows that animals want not only affection and love, but also care. Perhaps you are just planning to adopt a kitten into your family, or if you have already adopted a little furry one, then you naturally have various questions about caring for a new family member. An important point in caring for an animal is the correct and timely trimming of a cat’s claws.
The article below discusses the topic of nail trimming for kittens and adults. From it you will learn why to do this and with what tools. You will also read whether the breed of the animal is related to claw trimming and much more. Happy reading!
Why trim your nails?
This question interests all cat owners. Domestic cats need to have their claws cut because, unlike street animals, they do not walk on asphalt, stones, or climb trees, where they can take care of their claws themselves. Long claws interfere with the movement of pets and also cause them discomfort. If you do not trim your animal's claws, there is a chance that it will begin to sharpen them on upholstered furniture. But you don’t want this outcome, do you? Therefore, to make life easier for the animal and you, carry out this procedure at an early age.
But if you sometimes let your cat out on the street, then do not cut the claws, because the animal needs them for protection. Even partially outdoor cats can take care of their claws themselves, actively running and climbing trees.
If your pet occasionally goes outside, you are putting him at great risk. As a result, the animal will become easy prey for dogs. And with the help of sharp claws, the cat will protect itself from dogs and other cats.
When is the best time to cut a baby's nails?
For a newborn, such a process is new and unusual. In order to leave only good impressions about this in the subconscious, it is important to cut nails only when the child is in a calm state
.
The best time to do this:
- after satisfying the child’s physiological needs: feeding and changing diapers, when the baby is not suffering from colic, nothing bothers him, he is in a good mood, full and happy with what is happening around him. In the process of treating nails, you should smile at the baby, talk to him, sing affectionate songs, create an atmosphere of kindness, calmness and comfort;
- during bathing, the nail plates become softer and more amenable to treatment, so after taking a bath it’s time to do this procedure;
- if your child is quite active when awake, then you can carry out this procedure while sleeping, but you should be doubly careful not to injure the child. After all, if this happens, then this factor may negatively affect the baby’s psyche and there may be problems with falling asleep.
At what age can you cut your hair?
The second most important question in this matter is: when should you start trimming your nails? Some veterinarians suggest accustoming an animal to trimming its claws from 2-3 months, others from 3-4 months. This is the optimal age for introducing the procedure into animal care. The sooner you start doing this, the faster your pet will get used to these actions and at the sight of scissors or nippers he will not hiss, bite or hide from you, hoping that you will leave him alone. After all, the older the pet, the more difficult it will be for him to get used to the haircut.
Trimming stages
Castration of dogs: at what age and is it necessary?
Haircut consists of several stages. Compliance with them will allow the procedure to be carried out correctly and not harm the pet. It is necessary not only to correctly choose the place where the incision will be made, but also to select the right tool.
Reference! If the cat has a violent temperament, it is better to carry out the procedure with several people rather than alone. Then everything will go faster, and the owner will reduce the risk of being scratched and bitten.
Selecting a location
You can't just take a claw and cut where you want. In this area the animal has many nerve endings and blood vessels that form the pulp. If it is damaged, blood will begin to flow from the nail area, and the pet will be in pain. Therefore, you should choose the right place. It is permissible to remove no more than 2 mm of the stratum corneum, cutting off only its upper part. If the owner is not sure that he can cope, it is worth contacting specialists. The first procedure must be carried out carefully, acting with extreme caution.
Using a nail clipper
There are several different tools available to carry out the procedure. One of these is a nail clipper. The principle of its operation is similar to nail scissors. At the ends of the tool there are special cutouts located vertically. They help to quickly and safely remove part of the nail.
When using a nail clipper, proceed as follows:
- With your left hand, carefully take the cat's paw and lightly press on the pad. This will allow the animal to release its claws;
- Take the tool with your right hand and cut off a maximum of 2 mm from the tip. It is better to be careful and cut a little than to harm your pet and hurt him;
- Using a nail clipper, you need to place your nail between the cutouts of the tool and bring the ends together.
The more carefully and calmly everything goes, the more likely it is that next time the pet will resist and be less nervous.
Anti-scratch for cats
Can I cut my hair with regular scissors?
It has already been noted that there are special tools for trimming claws. Some people wonder whether it is possible to use ordinary scissors to perform the procedure, and if not, then why? By deciding to do this, the owner risks harming the animal. It is strictly forbidden to use standard scissors and other tools from a regular manicure set. Especially if the objects are not sharp, but blunt. They can split the claws, cutting will take a long time and the cat may be hurt.
Important! The only exception is the sanding file. It can be used to treat the animal’s nails after the procedure.
You can purchase special tools for cats at pet stores or veterinary pharmacies.
Nail trimming and breed
You may be wondering: is there a connection between breed and how often you trim your nails? Veterinarians will tell you that it all depends on the breed of the animal. Therefore, this factor affects how often you trim your pet's nails.
So, according to veterinarians, British dogs should have their nails trimmed every three weeks, as in this breed they grow back quite quickly.
Nail trimming for a Briton
For example, Scottish cats have claws that grow more slowly. In this regard, trimming the claws can be done less frequently. The main thing is to monitor the condition of the nail plate and the pet’s paws in general.
Representatives of the Persian or Sphynx breeds have claws that grow faster than those of other cats. Therefore, monitor nail growth and treat them every two weeks.
The main thing is not to overdo it. It is better to cut less, but more often. If you cut off too much of the nail, you risk injuring the animal. Be careful!
But do not forget that each pet is individual. And therefore, all domestic cats require an individual approach
Where is the best place to trim a cat's claws?
If you are afraid of injuring the kitten, cutting off the plate incorrectly, you can trim the cat’s claws at a veterinary clinic or at a groomer. It is better for a specialist to come to your home, especially if you do not have vaccinations. In a familiar environment, the animal will feel calmer and less distracted.
If the specialist only works in the clinic, buy a carrier to take the cat there. Otherwise, the animal may escape along the way.
In order not to constantly call a specialist, ask him to show you how to properly cut the plates. The first few times, do the procedure under his supervision. Then handle it yourself.
How to cut your hair correctly: main steps
If this is your first time cutting your cat's claws, take the time to look at the angle at which it should be done. An incorrectly chosen angle can lead to delamination of the animal’s claws. Another important rule: cut only the part that is rounded. Looking at the claw, you may notice that there are blood vessels there. It is important not to hurt them! This will cause discomfort and pain to your pet.
How to trim claws correctly
Useful tips
- Never trim the plates if the cat is agitated or upset.
- Take your time during the procedure. One awkward movement can lead to injury, injury, or frighten the animal.
- Do not try to treat 2 paws at once, especially when you are just accustoming your pet to the procedure.
- Don't forget about the claw on the 5th finger. If it grows into the skin, it will be very painful for your pet.
- Don’t forget to praise the cat after trimming each claw and give a treat at the end of the procedure.
- Should a cat's back claws be trimmed? Yes, but not as often as the front ones. The back plates grow more slowly.
Using a nail clipper
Before using the nail clipper, treat its surface with an alcohol-containing product, which will help prevent infection.
Take the time to wash your hands before trimming your nails and rinse them with a disinfectant to prevent the spread of any infection.
What tools can you use to trim a cat's claws? Can I cut my hair with regular scissors?
Any owner wants to know how to cut their pet's nails. Nowadays there are different devices for cutting hair. It all depends on the desire of the owner, and which of the devices will be more convenient for him to use.
It's not a good idea to trim your pet's nails with regular nail scissors that you use on yourself. Since the nail plate of humans and animals is different, it is better to choose a special nail clipper for your pet. But if you don't have tools designed specifically for your animal, make sure your regular scissors are well-sharpened and not loose. The quality of the device determines how the procedure will go.
Scissors
One of the options for trimming cats' claws is specially shaped scissors. They differ from ordinary ones in that they have a rounded end, which is shaped like a cat's claw.
Nail trimming scissors
Guillotine
The name of this device may put you off buying it. But don't panic! It will not cause any harm to your pet if used correctly. The guillotine operates on the principle of scissors. She removes the excess part of the nail. If you still don’t like the name, you can choose another tool that interests you.
Guillotine
Secateurs
Another device that may scare you with its name. Outwardly, it resembles a garden device of the same name. Only cat claw pruners are smaller in size and have a different shape of scissor blades, at the end of which there is also a special cutout in the shape of a cat's claw.
Secateurs
Grinder
An electric scratching post resembles a polishing file that people use for manicures. Only the device for cats has less power. It works on the principle of grinding down an animal's claws. This device is usually used in veterinary clinics and animal salons. The tool comes with stoppers for safe filing of claws. But if this is the first time in your life that you are giving your pet a manicure, use a different tool, since the grinder requires skill and experience.
Grinder
File
This tool will help you finish trimming your pet's nails. The file operates on the same principle as a human file: it grinds down the sharp edges of the claws after they are cut with some kind of nail cutter.
File
There are times when owners do not want to trim their cats' claws. For this case, veterinarians came up with claw covers. These are caps that are attached to the glue that comes with the kit. The animal needs time to get used to the anti-scratch. If the pads are glued correctly, they will not cause harm or danger to your pet. They will fly off on their own along with the keratinized part of the nail, so this manicure must be carried out regularly and not miss the moment.
Anti-scratch
How can you trim a cat's claws?
Can a cat's nails be trimmed with scissors? To tidy up your paws, buy tools designed not for people, but for cats. They are more convenient to work with and the risk of injury is minimal. In addition, even the sharpest nail scissors are not suitable for cutting animal plates.
To trim a cat's claws at home, you will need:
- Plate shears or sickle or guillotine type nail clippers. Ideally, it should be a tool with stainless steel knives and handle pads that will not allow your hand to slip.
- Cotton wool or gauze in case of bleeding.
- Disinfectant (eg hydrogen peroxide).
- Gloves made of leather or thick fabric that will save your hands from scratches.
- Manicure file.
Nail trimming tools must be sharp. Before the procedure, wipe the knives with a disinfectant to avoid infection if an accidental cut occurs.
Claw clippers
When considering whether to trim your cat's nails, consider nail clippers. Give preference to the guillotine type. It is more convenient to use and cuts plates better. The sickle-shaped tool is intended for animals whose claws are stronger than those of a cat.
How to prepare a cat for the first procedure?
You should not trim the claws if your dog is too active and excited, as he may mistake it for violent actions, which will scare him away more. Therefore, choose a time when the kitten is calm, or better yet, when he is very tired. This way he won’t try to escape and won’t get too stressed. Remember the following rule: do not make slow movements when trimming nails, as this may begin to irritate the animal. It will begin to get nervous and break out of the owner’s hands, which will subsequently lead to damage or even injury.
Pet your pet, give him his favorite delicacy. By appeasing your pet, it will be easier for him to make contact with you, and he will be less aggressive before starting the procedure.
And most importantly, you need to talk to the animal. After all, he is also a living creature and loves when the owner speaks to him kindly.
Advice! Remember, the calmer the owner, the more obedient the animal.
So prepare yourself in advance, calm down and tune in, because an animal, even a small one, understands the feelings of its owner.
If the animal still breaks out and becomes nervous, do not yell at it. This will make him even more nervous, which will frighten the animal in the future during the next haircut.
You might think your friend is in pain during the procedure. But if you do everything correctly and at the same time without sudden or too slow movements, then your pet will be satisfied.
How to trim a cat's claws if she's struggling
Do cats need to have their nails trimmed if they don't like the procedure? Before trimming an aggressive cat's nails, swaddle her in a towel. And only then treat your nails. This will protect both you and the animal from injury. Do not shout or punish your pet - this will make the situation worse. Speak in a soothing, gentle voice.
You can also contact a specialist, but keep in mind that with him she will resist more. There is a high probability that he will not be able to calm your pet and trim the plates efficiently.
What to do if damaged?
If, however, damage occurs to the animal while trimming its nails, stop immediately and begin treating the injury or wound. To begin, prepare some cotton pads and anti-bleeding agents so you have everything at hand. If the injury is more serious than you thought, try to stop the bleeding and go to the vet. He will tell you what to do and what to do next.
Once you've finished trimming his nails, treat your friend to his favorite treat.
Advice: do not force the animal to cut its nails and do not mock it while trimming its claws, because this way it will avoid not only this procedure, but possibly you as well.
But if you still do not plan to do the first procedure on your own, carry out this haircut under the supervision of a veterinarian. A certified specialist will tell you how to handle the tool and the animal, and tell you how to avoid injuries. He will also give advice on how to make the procedure less stressful for all participants in the process.
Step-by-step instruction
A cat's claws consist of a keratinized layer, inside of which there is a pulp - a collection of nerve endings and blood vessels. When trimming, it is important not to touch a sensitive area, otherwise it will be very painful for your pet and blood will come from the wound.
In cats with light-colored claws, the pulp is clearly visible - it looks like a pink, crescent-shaped area. You can point your paw at a bright light or use a flashlight - the picture will be clearer.
It is more difficult to trim the claws of cats with dark pigmentation - you will have to act blindly. In this case, carefully cut off 1-2 mm at a time until the color inside becomes a little lighter - this is the beginning of the pulp.
For your information. Before cutting, remove the hair between the pads so that it does not interfere.
Nail trimming begins when the cat is calm, relaxed and ready to communicate. At this point, the owner should disinfect his hands and nail clippers, prepare cotton pads and antiseptic in case of injury.
Step-by-step instructions for trimming nails at home:
- The owner takes a comfortable position, puts the cat on his lap with his back to himself or lays him on his back. Particularly mobile pets can be wrapped in a terry towel.
- He takes the paw in his hand and presses on the pad to expose the claw.
- He brings the nail clipper to his paw. If the cat does not show concern, clicks it. In case of anxiety, he strokes and calms the pet, after which he repeats the manipulation.
- Now quickly and confidently sets the nail cutter 1-2 mm to the pulp and trims the claw so that the edge remains sharp. If you cut the platinum at the wrong angle, you will be more likely to hit the pulp.
- At the end, the cuts are rounded off with a nail file, giving a natural shape. In the future, you will be able to trim your claws less frequently if you regularly trim the overgrown areas.
If you trim your cat's nails correctly, your cat will not experience any discomfort. In fact, many animals struggle and hiss not because of pain, but because they are scared.
In order not to overwork the cat, the haircut is carried out in several passes. For example, one paw is treated daily.
