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Cat Claw Cutting

"Cat claw cutting or cat claw trimming is necessary if using a scratching post alone doesn't trim and or keep the front claws worn. Be sure to cut your cat toenails above the quick or pink part of the nail to avoid pain and bleeding. For dark nails cut just just after the curve to avoid any blood vessels in the nail. We assume no liability for following the instructions listed below."�

Cat claw cutting is something that is necessary to keep your cats claws from growing into the paws or scratching. Think of claws like human finger nails that need to be cut. Start cutting your cat's nails when she is a kitten to get her used to it. If she moves around like most cats you might need to restrain your cat.

The Cat Health Guide assumes no liability for injury to you or your pet incurred by following these descriptions or procedures.

Restraining Your Cat While Cutting Cat Claws

Place your cat in your lap and use the forearms to hold down the head and hind quarters.

If you have trouble restraining your cat you could also try a Klaw Kontrol Scratch-Proof Groom & Care Pet Bag which will gently hold your cat in place and double as a convenient carrier.

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Selecting a Cat Claw Clipper

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the three different types of cat nail trimmers

It is fine to use a human nail clipper. Other types include guillotine and scissors. Most prefer the guillotine type such as Finishing Touch Guillotine Nail Clipper for Cats (Guillotine Clipper) guillotine or human clippers. Scissors are selected for long nails that have a curl.

Only use a sharp blade when cutting nails. The guillotine type cutters have replaceable blades.

You can try a newer tool such as the frequently advertised PediPaws Pet Nail Trimmer for your cat. See our discussion below.

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Getting the Cat Claws to Extract

Gently squeeze your cat's paw using your thumb and finger to get the claw to come out. You can also push up the bottom of the toe to encourage your cat to extend the nail.

Cat Claw Trimming

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where the quick is located on a cats toenail

Notice the difference between the pink area on the nail and the white area. When cutting the nail stay 2 millimeters above the "quick" or pink area.

Cutting the quick will cause your cat pain and bleeding.

If your cat has dark nails then cut after the curve to avoid cutting the quick.

placing human nail clippers on the toenail

The clipper should be placed perpendicular to the nail and then cut from top to bottom in one cut.

To smooth the nail you can use a human nail file.

If you use a guillotine nail cutter make sure that that blade faces you. Cut the nail from top to bottom.

Cut the Cat Dew Claw

Don't ignore the nail on the inside part of the paw. These need to be trimmed to avoid the nail growing back into the foot.

What Happens if the Cut the Quick and Cause Bleeding

Don't panic if you cut the nail and cause bleeding. Just apply pressure with a cotton ball. You can also use a styptic pencil to stop the bleeding. It should stop in a few minutes.

Pedipaws and Cats

The PediPaws Pet Nail Trimmer is another approach for trimming your cats nails. The device works with a sanding wheel that files back the nail. The device makes a noise that may be jarring for your cat until she gets used to the device. Also, is is find for frequent filing when the nails are short. It may take a long time to file a long nail. Instead of a substitute for a nail cutter it might be another tool you have for grooming your cat. The tool costs between $17 and $20.

References for Cat Claw Cutting:

Washington State University
College of Veterinary Medicine

Photos by Henry Moore

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