All cat parents should check their furry friends’ claws regularly. If you want to learn how to trim cat claws yourself, follow our step-by-step instructions here.Like us humans, cats also have to pay attention to their nails – i.e. claws. While outdoor cats are more likely to have their nails filed down naturally in nature, indoor cats may require more nail care. In this article you will learn how you can trim cats’ claws safely and at home. We have put together the best tips and tricks on how this can work easily and painlessly – for both of you!
How to trim cats’ claws correctly
Start while they are young so they get used to cutting.
Some cats have their nails trimmed easily, while others may need to be gently positioned.
Trim your cat’s claws with their paws relatively close to their body, in as natural a position as possible. If you pull your paw too far forward, she will instinctively pull it back.
Use cat or regular nail clippers to trim your cat’s nails at the tip. Caution: DO NOT cut the nail pulp (the pink part of the nail, see graphic below).
Trim one claw per day until all are trimmed.
Reward your cat after trimming (e.g. with treats).
Do cats’ claws even need to be trimmed?
Not quite. Most cats do not need to have their nails trimmed1, especially outdoor cats. However, indoor cats, arthritis sufferers, and/or geriatric cats may benefit from having their nails trimmed regularly, since they don’t have as much exercise or as many natural opportunities to file their nails as other cats. If in doubt, seek veterinary advice as to whether your cat’s nails need to be trimmed.
If cat claws are too long, they can cause problems for the cat and also pose a danger to you. Claws that are too long can easily get caught and caught in clothing, blankets, carpets and furniture. This can result in a broken claw or other type of injury to your pet.1
Not to mention, if your cat’s claws are too long, YOU are more likely to get a nasty scratch.
Finally, claws that are too long can grow in and curl into the paw pads, which can lead to infection. And that means pain and probably medication for your furry friend. You can avoid this worry by trimming your cat’s claws regularly.
How often should you trim cats' claws?
Check your cat’s paws and claws regularly to make sure there are no cuts, swelling, infections, injuries, or splinters.
You can trim cat claws every 6-8 weeks as needed2. If you can hear your cat’s nails clicking on the ground as they walk, it’s definitely time to trim them.
How to trim cat claws: step-by-step instructions
Step 1: The right timing and the right environment
It’s best to start trimming your cat’s claws when she’s a young kitten so she gets used to it – making the process easier as she grows up.
Be sure to find a quiet place to trim your nails, away from loud noises or distractions (e.g. other animals or birds in front of the window). It’s best to trim your cat’s nails when he’s sleepy or after eating a meal to ensure your pet is in the best mood for the task at hand. Have her sit on your lap, be gentle with her, and have some treats ready.
Step 2: Define the cutting area
As soon as your pet is sitting relaxed on your lap – and without moving him too much – carefully lift one paw. Pinch a toe bone between your fingers to expose the nail, like this, Take a closer look at your cat’s nail to learn the anatomy of the claw. It is important that you be able to identify the three parts of the claw: the claw coat, nail pulp, and claw
The nail pulp, or pink part of the cat’s nail, contains nerves and blood vessels. DO NOT under ANY circumstances cut this area!
In the image below, you can see where it is safe to trim your cat’s nails – at the bottom of the nail, closer to the tip. DO NOT cut in the pink area – or you could expose your cat to bleeding and infection. It’s better to trim their nails just a little bit than risk damaging their nail pulp.
Step 3: Shorten cat claws
Gently cut off the tip of one claw, release your cat’s paw and reward him with a treat. If your cat doesn’t mind this process, you can trim a few more nails. For some cats, trimming just one claw per day is more recommended.
If your cat is excited or upset, don’t try to trim his claws. Stay calm and definitely don’t punish your furry friend if he doesn’t cooperate – just try another time or ask professionals for help.
The sharper the nail scissors are, the smoother the trimmed claw will be. After trimming your cat’s claw, you can file it down to avoid snagging.
Step 4: Reward your pet
After trimming, reward your cat with a treat, her favorite food, or lots of cuddles and kind words. This way, your pet will begin to tolerate the nail trimming process.
Step 5: Repeat the process
Since most cats don’t like having their nails trimmed, you may need to repeat these steps every day until you’ve trimmed all of your cat’s nails. Remember to be patient, reward your cat for good behavior, and try to make the process pleasant for both of you.
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