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Cats are pretty good at taking care of themselves when it comes to grooming—after all, they do give themselves baths pretty much constantly. But there are still some things they need help with, including keeping their nails the proper length. Scratching posts can only go so far!
That doesn't mean it's not an intimidating pet care task, though, especially since those claws can be very sharp. You don't want to hurt your kitty, either, which means it's important to be confident and fully prepared before you take out the nail clippers.
With enough knowledge and practice, you can become a total pro, and your cat can become a lot more comfortable with having their nails trimmed, too.
How To Trim Cat Nails at Home
According to the Cat Care Society, if you have an indoor cat, you'll want to trim their nails about every two to four weeks, though cats who spend time outdoors may need their nails trimmed less frequently.
It's important to keep up with trimming their nails on a regular basis because they can run into problems if their nails get too long, especially if they grow so long that they curve into their footpads, which can puncture.
How To Trim Cat Nails for the First Time
Of course, it will be easiest if you trim your cat's nails starting from as early in kittenhood as possible to help them get used to it, but if you adopt an adult cat, all you can do is make it a regular part of your routine and remember to stay patient.
Before you trim their nails for the first time, you should help them get used to having their paws handled by a human. On her website, cat trainer Patience Fisher recommends practicing touching your cat's paws daily, rewarding them with praise and a treat each time.
Since felines have retractable nails, after they're used to you touching their paws, you'll also want to practice pressing their claws out (and rewarding them for good behavior then, too).
Keep in mind that you definitely want to avoid cutting a cat's nails to the quick. Since their nails are clear, it should be easy to see the red or pink part inside their nail, which will bleed if cut.
How To Trim Cat Nails When They Hate It
No matter how hard you try to make it a happy, comfortable experience for your kitty, there are going to be some who don't like getting their nails trimmed. Cats can be very stubborn creatures, after all.
If your furry friend really seems to hate it, there are a few nail-trimming tricks you can pull out to see if they make any meaningful difference, as Catster points out. Here are some ideas to try:
- Get a second human involved to help you out, since they can distract the kitty or help you keep them still while you trim.
- Swaddle your cat beforehand if they like being held.
- If they don't want to be swaddled, try holding the kitty in your lap, facing out.
- Take your time, and only trim one or two of their nails each day.
- Try trimming their nails while they're asleep. Some cats may not even wake up if they sleep deeply enough!
How To Cut Cat Nails if They Bite
Cutting your cat's nails becomes even more stressful if they tend to bite when they're stressed out. You can try wrapping your kitty up in a towel like a burrito, or using a cat restraint grooming bag or hammock that will hold them up in the air while you trim their nails, giving them far less access to bite you.
Related: Why Is My Cat Chewing on Plastic? When To Worry About Pica
Can You Cut Cat Nails With Human Clippers?
Cutting your cat's nails with human nail clippers can work in a pinch, but you shouldn't make a habit of it. According to veterinary charity PDSA, human nail clippers can cause a cat's claws to split, which can make walking painful.
Instead, use clippers intended for cat nails and their curved shape, which are much different from human nail clippers, designed to cut flat nails.
Can You Cut Cat Nails Without Clippers? How?
Clippers may not be your nail-trimming tool of choice, but fortunately, you have options. You can try a pet nail grinder instead, which is a bit gentler, but it takes more time.
Remember to supply plenty of scratching posts and toys around the house, too. This will help minimize how often you need to trim your cat's nails, which is a win for everyone involved.
If you're feeling stressed out about cutting your cat's nails, they're probably stressed out, too, and it might not be worth it to take care of this task at home. Visiting a groomer or a vet and having their nails trimmed professionally might be worth the extra cost and effort if it means saving your relationship with your cat (along with your sanity).
