How to clip your cats claws

If you have an indoor cat that does not wear its claws naturally, it may be a good idea to cut the claws to prevent the cat from injuring itself. Here we explain step by step how to cut the cat's claws.

Taking care of your cat’s claws is an essential part of their overall health and well-being.

Whether your feline friend’s claws need trimming depends largely on their lifestyle. Indoor cats typically require more frequent trims compared to outdoor cats. This is because indoor cats often don’t wear down their claws naturally from climbing and scratching outside.

Regular inspection ensures that their claws don’t grow into the foot pad, keeping your kitty comfortable and safe.

How to clip cat nails

Choose the right tools: Use claw pliers or clippers that you feel comfortable with.
Pick the right time: Clip the claws when your cat is calm and relaxed.
Hold the paw: Gently hold your cat’s paw and push the claw out of its capsule.
Trim carefully: Cut off just the tip of the claw. Trim a little at a time to avoid hitting the pulp.
Be patient: If your cat is stressed, clip a few claws at a time.

Having another person help can make the process easier.

Clipping cat’s back nails

Follow the same steps for clipping your cat’s back nails as you do for the front nails. Ensure your cat is calm and positioned securely.

How far to clip cat nails

When clipping your cat's claws, focus on just the sharp, outermost tip. You want to avoid cutting too close to the pinkish area inside the claw, known as the pulp. This pink part is full of nerves and blood vessels, so if you cut into it, it can cause pain and bleeding. Just trim a little bit at a time to stay safe and keep your kitty comfortable.

How often to clip cat nails

Most indoor cats need their nails trimmed every 1 to 2 weeks. Check your cat’s claws regularly and clip them when they start to look too long.

Clipping cat nails by yourself

To clip your cat’s nails at home:

Prepare your supplies: Gather nail clippers or pliers designed for cats.
Create a calm environment: Choose a quiet place where your cat feels safe.
Position your cat: Hold your cat securely, either on your lap or a comfortable surface.
Clip carefully: Follow the steps mentioned above to trim each nail.

How to hold a cat for nail clipping

Gently hold the paw: Use one hand to hold the cat’s paw steady.
Restraining techniques: You can use a towel to wrap around your cat’s body, exposing just its paws.
Enlist help: Having someone else hold the cat can make it easier.

Clipping nails of a difficult cat

If your cat resists or gets aggressive during nail trimming, staying calm is key. Speak softly and gently to help soothe your pet. Some people like to safely restrain their cat by wrapping it in a towel or blanket, leaving only its paws exposed. However, some cats won’t like this. So, consider whether this will make her more upset before giving it a go.

If your cat becomes too stressed, it’s okay to take breaks and try again later. To make the experience more positive, reward your cat with treats. This will help create a good association with nail clipping and may make future sessions smoother.

How to clip cat's nails with human clippers

Using human nail clippers to trim your cat’s claws can be a mixed bag compared to using special pet clippers. The good news is that human clippers are easy to find and usually cheaper. But they’re not made for the curved shape of cat claws, so trimming can be a bit tricky and less precise. The straight edge might even risk splitting the claw or cutting too close to the sensitive pink area inside.

Specialised pet clippers are designed with your cat’s claws in mind. They offer better accuracy and safety, often featuring tools to help you avoid cutting too much and making the whole process smoother and more controlled.

Cost of professional nail clipping

If you’d rather leave nail trimming to the pros, you can take your cat to a vet or a groomer. The service typically costs around £20. However, prices can vary based on where you go and your cat’s needs. Some vets might charge more if they need to sedate your cat to safely trim the nails, especially if your kitty is particularly anxious or difficult. It's a good idea to call around and ask about prices and what’s included in the service to find the best option for you and your cat.

Dulling cat’s nails without clipping

If you’d rather not clip your cat’s nails, there are other options to keep those claws in check. A scratching post can help your cat naturally wear down its nails through regular use. Cats love to scratch, and a good scratching post provides them with a healthy outlet.

Another alternative is using cat nail caps (although this won’t appeal to everyone). These are small, soft covers that you glue over your cat’s claws. They help prevent scratching and protect your furniture and skin from those sharp claws. Just remember to follow the instructions carefully and keep an eye on the caps to make sure they stay in place and don’t cause any discomfort.