Nail Trimming Procedure

The general nail care and training tips are presented in our introductory article: Nails. Select the link to that article if you would like to review the basics.

An important tip is to make sure that Kitty does not move during the trimming. Hold the nail quite steady in your hand. If she moves during the interval you are closing the clippers, it is more likely that you will trim too short, or pull the nail in the nailbed. The trick is to apply steady pressure on the top and bottom of the nail base, without excessive pressure. Practice makes perfect!

Don't forget to praise her for cooperating. If she starts to get restless, put her down and try again when she has settled down. Avoid forcing her to stay if she is really getting irritated. We want trimming to be a procedure that she grows to like, or at least tolerate. For most kitties, some days may be better than others!

 

 

 

This picture shows the junction in the nail where the quick (pink) stops and the clear nail starts

 

 

On the underside of the nail, you may find a sheath of dry nail hanging off the bottom edge. Remove this during nail clipping. Cats normally remove this old nail material while using the scratching post.

 

 

 

This picture shows the use of the file. You only need to do this step after you cut the nail if sharp jagged edges remain.

 

 

 

If you cut too close and there is bleeding, if your veterinarian dispenses styptic pencils, they can be rolled over the cut surface to coagulate the blood. Styptic powder can be sprinkled on the end. Pressure is not required.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another way to stop the bleeding is to take a cotton ball and gently press it onto the cut surface, and count to 60 seconds. Don't worry about too much blood being lost. It will stop if you are patient and hold the cotton still. Even a paper towel or kleenex will work fine.

 

 

 

 

For video suitable for dialup connection (~200 Kb), select here- Part 1 Trimming Part 2 Stopping Bleeding

Video for broadband connection (~600 Kb), select here- Part 1 Trimming Part 2 Stopping Bleeding