If you have a cat, you should trim its nails regularly. But in fact, even if you think, "I'll cut your cat's nails!" . I want to cut my nails well at home! If you are the owner, please read it.
I need my cat's nails clipped!
If you have a cat at home, you should trim its claws. If the nails are not clipped, not only will the owner get injured, but the cat may get unexpectedly injured, such as getting caught in the curtains or sofa. Also, their long claws can make your favorite furniture crumbling... Unlike human claws, a cat's claws are layered like an onion. By sharpening the nails, the old outer nails come off. If you do not clip the nails, the old nails will remain and become thicker and thicker, and they may become ingrown nails and stick into the paws. In the case of cats that go outside, their claws naturally come off because they climb trees and fences, or run as hard as they can, but this is not the case with domestic cats. Therefore, it is necessary for the owner to trim them regularly.
When should I cut it?
You can start clipping your cat's nails from the time they are kittens. Does it make a clicking sound when you walk or does it hurt a little when you hold it? When you feel it, it's time to cut it. Also, by getting your kitten used to nail clipping, they often let you do it even after they grow up without hesitation.
Tips and tricks for clipping cat nails
Aim to cut your cat's nails when he is calm, such as when he is sleepy or relaxed. Also, it is a point that you can finish it well in a short time. If you don't like it, consider cutting only a few on that day or canceling it. Cats have 5 claws on the front paws and 4 on the back paws. Don't forget to cut the toenails on the front paws as well. In addition, since the nails are normally hidden, the paws are pushed to expose the nails before being cut. Clipping your cat's nails starts with holding them in place. Retaining is to hold the animal so that it does not move. It can be held on your desk, on your lap, or on the floor. Let's do it in the posture that the cat likes. First, wrap the cat from behind with your non-dominant hand. Also, lock the elbow and knee joints firmly between your thumb and index finger so that the cat does not pull your hand. And you will be able to cut with your dominant hand. It is often a little difficult to clip the nails by yourself, but if there are two of you, you can easily do it if one of you holds the cat, stretches the cat's arms, and then cuts the nails.
How far should I cut?
Unlike dogs, cat nails are easy to clip because the blood vessels are visible through them. If you look closely at your nail, you'll notice that there are red blood vessels (and nerves) running through it, so you'll want to leave about 1-2mm behind. If it is difficult, just cut off the tip a little. Even if you cut a blood vessel, you will be able to stop the bleeding without getting impatient. The method of stopping bleeding is called pressure hemostasis, and let's hold the bleeding site with gauze or cotton for about 10 minutes. If it doesn't stop, use a hemostatic agent or call the animal hospital to confirm.
How to deal with rage
Many cats hate having their nails clipped. Therefore, when you act violently, wrap it in a bath towel or put it in a laundry net. Also, in the case of a child who bites, it is a good idea to wear an Elizabethan collar in advance. One way to do this is to feed them treats and cut them while playing with their toys.
How often do you cut your cat's nails
The frequency of nail clipping depends on the child's age, activity level, and the frequency of nail sharpening, but it should be done about once every 1-2 months. Many senior cats do not sharpen their claws and grow easily, so once every 2-3 weeks may be good. Once in a while, check your nails and when you feel they are growing, it's time to cut them.
cat nail clipper type
There are two main types of nail clippers: the guillotine type and the scissors type. Guillotine type nail clippers are commonly used in veterinary clinics. It is characterized by being able to cut in an instant because force is applied evenly to the part to be cut. It may be intimidating at first because the shape is different from other people's nail clippers, but it's very easy once you get used to it. The scissors type is suitable for cutting hardened and ingrown toenails. The scissors type may be recommended for first-time users because it is easy to hold and the cut surface is easy to see. There is also an electric file type, but it may take time and may not be suitable for cats who dislike vibrations.
When you can't do it well, at the animal hospital!
If you're having trouble clipping your cat's nails, ask your veterinarian to do it for you. If you forcibly hold down and cut a disliked cat, not only will you hate clipping, but your relationship with the owner will also deteriorate. Some of them may panic, defecate, or hit a wall and get injured. You can also do it at pet salons and pet shops, so let's check.What is the approximate price?
The fee for nail clipping varies depending on the animal hospital, but in many cases it is around 500 to 1,000 yen. This is in addition to the examination fee and re-examination fee. Some veterinary hospitals offer free services.