Have you ever wrangled a cat for a nail trim? Each claw finds traction in a different direction. I tried it once and knew I needed help. Fortunately, my vet gave me great advice, and I would like to share that with you.
Nail Trimming Is Important for Cats
Nail trimming was never an issue with my childhood cat. Taffy arrived at our doorstep declawed. It wasn’t until I got cats of my own as an adult that I learned about nail trimming.
With my cat Crickett, I had to learn quickly. She was feisty. The first time we went to the vet for shots, it took four men to hold her down.
She had sharp nails, and they seemed to grow quickly. She didn’t hesitate to use them, either — on me, my other cat, the carpet, and the furniture. As a kitten, she scaled the full length of the drapes and the pant legs of anyone who visited her home.
My scariest first moment with Crickett was when a nail snagged in the drapes and she started swinging. I knew I’d have to keep those nails trimmed. But the thought of cutting them scared me even more than watching her swing from the drapes or trip on the carpet.
Risks of Do-It-Yourself Nail Trimming
Do-it-yourself nail trimming can be risky. Even for a calmer cat, trimming at home comes with risks — especially if you don’t know what you are doing. If you cut too far down the nail, you are in danger of hitting nerves and blood vessels.
The experience can be traumatizing for the cat too — often more traumatizing than going to the vet or groomer. When you don’t know what you are doing, nail trimming at home can become a long and drawn-out process. Your cat will sense your tension and frustration. Worse, your cat didn’t expect this unpleasant experience in the comfort of home.
The combo of dangers, potential trauma, and wrangling a feisty cat made me realize I couldn’t do it myself, no matter how many nail-trimming how-to videos I might watch.
Ask the Professionals for Help
So, I talked to my vet.
I was honest about my budget. I couldn’t afford to give my cat a professional mani-pedi every month. My vet helped me decide how often I really needed to bring Crickett in for a professional trim.
He showed me how to smooth the jagged edges of the claw tips in between visits. He supervised me as I did a trial run.
The vet showed me how I could use a thick towel to restrain Crickett safely. She was small, so the right-size towel engulfed her and kept her from hurting herself and me. The vet recommended clippers with maximum safety features that were relatively easy to use.
The in-between trimming — where all I did was keep the jagged edges dull — went fine for Crickett. I used a towel and took my time, helped her relax on the couch, and made it a casual thing. She responded well.
I made sure to get a pro trim on a schedule that fit with my budget. I also made sure to include the trim whenever I came in for other vet or boarding services.
Find Your Best Solution
There is a realistic and safe way to trim the nails of each cat. For me, it was worth asking for help during a vet visit. Trusted groomers can also help, although not every groomer works with cats — find out first. If you are not familiar with pet professionals in your area, talk with trusted friends who have pets. See which providers they recommend.
Before you start thinking about trimming nails yourself, my recommendation is to talk to a trusted cat care professional. Ask for their suggestions, help, recommendations, and instructions. They can help you find the best solution for the safety of your cat and your family.
Janet Eriksson 