How to cut your cat’s claws safely
2024. November 3 - Photos: Getty Images Hungary
2024. November 3 - Photos: Getty Images Hungary
When it comes to cat care, our tabby friends like to do everything on their own terms. Of course, it doesn't have to be that way! While outdoor cats need their claws and can thrive in such conditions, it may be more practical for indoor animals to have their killing tools shortened.
Read our article to find out how often you should cut your cat’s claws, how to cut them accurately, and what to do if you accidentally cut into the quick.
In general, indoor cats need a claw trim every few weeks. Kittens’ claws grow more quickly and may need to be trimmed weekly, while some older cats may only require this procedure once a month. Outdoor cats typically do not need their claws clipped. If a cat’s claws are too long, they may not fully retract, which can disturb and even injure the animal.
Overgrown claws may not seem like a big deal, but they can grow into the paw pad and get caught in various places, leading to injury.
The type of tool you use for the task is up to you. Choose the one that is most efficient and convenient. If we can offer a tip, we recommend scissor-type cutters for cats, as they can be easier to use than guillotine-type devices. While files may seem safe, their sound can be disturbing to the cat, so it may not be a good idea to start with one of those. Choose a towel that you can spray with pheromone spray 15 minutes before the process. You can wrap the cat in this towel if necessary.
Find a cozy, quiet corner and have your cat’s favorite treat ready, as well as a bleeding control product in case you want to manage any bleeding. For cutting, choose the position that is most comfortable for you. If the cat is particularly fussy, you can wrap it in the towel, leaving one paw out at a time. However, some cats may be stressed by this method. In that case, we recommend laying the cat on your lap on its back and trying it that way.
Once you have the correct position, select a paw. Apply light pressure to the paw pad to make the claws visible. The pink part of the cat’s claw, where the blood vessels and nerves are located, will bleed and hurt if cut. However, since most cats have transparent claws, it is relatively easy to find and avoid the pink part. As long as you only cut the white, translucent part of the nail, you’ll be fine! And remember, it’s better to cut less than more at once.
Instead of cutting straight across, cut at a 45-degree angle, which allows the nail to lie comfortably when the cat is standing. Be firm when making the cut; applying too soft a pressure on the scissors can break the claw instead of cutting it. Be careful of the hair on the cat’s paws, especially if you are using a file! It is recommended that you give your kitten a reward treat after each paw, as this will reinforce the positive experience of claw clipping and hopefully make it easier for you to do it in the future.
If you’re the visual type, here’s how a groomer clips the claws of a Scottish Fold cat. If you watch, they just clip the tip.
If you accidentally cut the claw too short, disinfect the area immediately and stop the bleeding. Don’t blame yourself—these things happen to the best of us! However, it’s a good idea to have the cut checked by a vet. Even small injuries can become serious if they don’t heal properly.
An important tip is to apply minimal restraint to keep your cat calm. Avoid holding your cat by the scruff, as this can increase stress and make the situation worse. If you can only manage one paw at a time, don’t worry—you can always try again tomorrow.
Click here to learn the correct way groom your long haired cat.
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