Why Is It Important to Trim Your Pet’s Nails?
Regular nail trimming is essential for your pet’s health and comfort. If nails grow too long, they can cause several issues:
- Pain and Inflammation. Overgrown nails can dig into the paw pads, leading to pain, infections, and even abscesses.
- Damage to Furniture and Floors. Nails can leave scratches on furniture, floors, and walls.
- Risk of Injury. Overgrown nails can break, causing bleeding and severe pain.
- Joint Problems. Long nails affect how a pet walks, leading to an altered gait, limping, and joint pain.
- Danger to Owners. Sharp nails can accidentally scratch owners or other animals.
How Often Should You Trim Your Pet’s Nails?
The frequency of trimming depends on the breed, lifestyle, and activity level of your pet. Look for these signs:
- Nails touch the ground and make a clicking sound when your pet walks.
- Your pet appears uncomfortable, limps, or licks its paws frequently.
- Nails start to curl or grow into the paw pads.
- Your pet gets stuck on fabrics or scratches furniture more often than usual.
Recommended Trimming Schedule:
- Cats: Every 2–3 weeks.
- Dogs: Every 3–4 weeks (active dogs walking on asphalt may need trimming less often).
- Certain Breeds (e.g., Maine Coons or Border Collies) may require more frequent care.
How to Trim Your Pet’s Nails Properly
Preparation:
- Use special pet nail clippers (regular scissors can splinter the nail, causing discomfort and damage).
- For large dogs, use guillotine-style or heavy-duty clippers; for cats and small dogs, opt for clippers with a safety guard.
- Ensure good lighting. For dark nails, use a flashlight to help locate the quick (the sensitive part of the nail).
- Keep styptic powder or a hemostatic pencil on hand in case of accidental cuts.
- Your pet should be calm and relaxed before the procedure.
Identifying the Cutting Line:
- Light-colored nails: The quick (pink part) is visible and should be avoided.
- Dark-colored nails: Trim a little at a time until a small dark dot appears at the center of the cut surface – this indicates you are near the quick.
Trimming Process:
- Secure the paw gently but firmly.
- Cut the nail at a 45-degree angle.
- Trim small sections at a time, especially for dark nails.
- After trimming, use a nail file to smooth rough edges.
- Praise and reward your pet with a treat to create positive reinforcement.
How to Get Your Pet Used to Nail Trimming
- Start early, so your pet becomes accustomed to the process.
- Handle and massage their paws regularly to make them more comfortable.
- Reward and praise your pet after each successful session.
- If your pet is scared, trim just one nail at a time and take breaks.
- Keep a calm and quiet environment to reduce stress.
When to Seek Veterinary Help
Consult a vet if:
- Your pet strongly resists or reacts aggressively to nail trimming.
- The nails are deformed, ingrown, or splitting.
- Your pet has health conditions that make nail trimming difficult.
- Bleeding occurs and does not stop within a few minutes.
- Nails are growing unusually fast or changing shape – this could indicate hormonal disorders (hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome), vitamin deficiencies, fungal infections, or diabetes.
Additional Tips
- Use anti-slip mats (such as rubber or silicone) if your pet is anxious.
- For dogs, apply strengthening treatments after trimming.
- Sedation should only be considered in extreme cases and always under veterinary supervision.
Our experienced professionals will safely and stress-free trim your pet’s nails! Book an appointment at "Shunn u Katun" Veterinary Clinic by phone or via messaging apps.