Paws and Claws: 6 Tips for Pawdicures
/Whenever possible, it is always good to start handling paws and trimming nails young. This allows you the gift of time, slow introduction, and getting them used to the progress of keeping their nails in check. If you’re dealing with an adult or mature cat, have no fear. You're only kidding yourself that there's any maturity there, but it is very possible to train and trim those frisky felines, too. Reward them with positive verbal reinforcement and lots of scratches and petting; physical interaction between pet parent and beastie is always a better teaching method for animals, as preference in treats and food can change over time, but affection will last as long as the trust and companionship does. Come to think of it, this kinda works for people, too...
Anyway, below are some suggestions for keeping your cat’s claws purrfectly trimmed and totally pawsome (nope, just couldn't help ourselves).
Slow and steady! - Do it at their pace. You want them comfortable, even happy, that you’re keeping their raptor claws in check.
Provide scratching posts! - Whether it is wood, heavy duty rope, or cardboard cats naturally enjoy having a set place to use their claws. They also use this spot to mark their territory with scent glands on their feet this also helps them keep their claws healthy.
Set up an understanding! - It’s much easier to teach an animal to be gentle in play when they are young, but cats can be very intuitive to their owner(s) at any age. Verbally expressing approval with positive reinforcement for nice play and stern “OW” when they are too rough will show them what is ok and what is too much claw.
You’re not my real parent! - Some kittens and cats have personalities that clash with behaving for nail trimming and handling their paws no matter how slow and steady you go. You still need patience, sorry, no way around it. Wrap kitten up in a towel, work on the back feet first, one at a time, and then shift to the front. This is always easier with two people: one holding and comforting grumpy cat, and the other trimming the daggers. We recommend doing one foot at a time if they’re particularly anxious or upset, letting them go with pets and positive reinforcement, and doing the next paw once your feline is in a chipper mood again. So you can shit on their mood the way they shit on your stuff.
Watch for the quick! - Luckily, most cats have clear or semi-clear nails, and being able to see the pink or red quick is pretty easy. Make sure you don’t cut right up to where you can visually see the quick because sometimes it can be a hair longer; leave a little space between quick and trimmed edge! If you do happen to see a little blood, don’t panic. Grab some flour, apply it to the bleeding quick for 1 minute with gentle pressure, and it should stop. As always, if bleeding is profuse or doesn’t stop easily, see your vet to be safe.
Speaking of the vet… - If you find you’re unable or your cat is truly uncooperative in all measures of getting their nails trimmed, don’t be afraid to seek out a professional! They can suggest alternatives to a hands-on approach, such as their own services, and nail caps (psst...that's us, Clawndoms). Find what works for you and your fur baby.
