How to Cut a Cat's Nails? 🐱 STEP-BY-STEP Guide

Welcome to this new AnimalWise video where today we provide our step-by-step tutorial on how to trim your cat's nails easily and without pain. Cats in the wild wear down their nails due to interaction with their environment such as marking or hunting. Domestic cats carry out these behaviours to a lesser extent and often have long nails as a result. In most cases it's not advisable to trim a cat's nails as they sharpen them on poles, scratchers and trees. When this does not happen, it's up to us to help keep them in good condition. We will know a cat's nails are too long when we can see them even though they should be retracted. In these cases the cat will feel uncomfortable and scratch all kinds of surfaces to try to relieve this discomfort. It's essential we use clippers designed especially for cats. In this way we can avoid causing any harm or injury even if unintentionally. We can also find files for felines' claws which provide a more natural finish. Finally, we also recommend using styptic powder sold in veterinary clinics and pharmacies to prevent bleeding in case of an accident. Now that we have everything we need, here's a step-by-step guide to trimming a cat's claws. Ask a relative or friend to hold and reassure the cat. Gently press the retracted nail to extend it completely. Look closely at the nail to see the live tissue underneath which may be pink, red or black. If the cat has a black claw and you can't see the tissue, leave it to a professional. Cut between one and two millimetres from the nail taking special care not to cut too far. You can also file instead of cutting with scissors. Repeat with the rest of the cat's claws. Remember you need to be especially careful when cutting the nail as cutting too far can lead to a hemorrhage. In addition to being painful, it can lead to stress and trauma. The result might be a generally fearful cat and possibly aggression the next time you try to cut their claws. Now you know how to trim a cat's nails, we'll show you some extra tips to make the procedure more comfortable and simple. Regularly touch the pants of your cat's paws to get them used to being handled. Avoid cutting your cat's nails when especially agitated or stressed as it's important for you to be calm as well. Associate the trimming of their claws with positivity by petting them, speaking reassuringly or even using pheromones to calm them. Wrap your cat in a towel like a burrito without squeezing too much to make them easier to handle. Only do this with very agitated cats as it can often add to stress and anxiety. If possible, start this routine early when they are still a kitten. If your cat is very nervous, it's preferable to do short sessions over a day or even a week. It's important to make them as comfortable as possible. Don't force your cat if they try to bite or scratch you. At the end of this video, we'll give you some tips if they do become aggressive. Under no circumstance should you shout at, scold or punish your cat. We'll only make the situation worse, cause unnecessary stress and harm your bond. Only use clippers specific to cats otherwise you may cut too much unintentionally. Be very patient and positive. Sometimes several sessions are required until the cat is allowed to properly trim their claws. The time varies depending on the growth rate of the nail, the amount of wear and activity of the cat, but generally they need trimmed every three to four weeks. If we have any doubts about the procedure, the cat has black nails or it is very aggressive, we can visit our vet to trim their claws. The professional will explain the steps to follow and will also have the necessary material if there are any accidents. We finish by pointing out that surgically removing the entire nail, known as declawing or an onychectomy, is a cruel and unnecessary practice which is banned in some countries. In addition to causing pain and anxiety in the cat, declawing prevents them from carrying out normal marking behaviour, which is fundamental for their well-being. Now you know how to cut a cat's nails, do you have any experiences you'd like to share with us? Leave us your comments below, like if you found it useful and subscribe for more to come. We'll see you next time.