Why pet nail trimming is necessary and how to master it
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Pet nails may need to be trimmed every few weeks, depending on your pet’s lifestyle. However, this grooming necessity typically invokes avoidance and fear. One bad experience can make pets and pet parents apprehensive about this task. Fortunately, with proper tools, instructions, and practice, one can master the art of pet nail trimming. Follow these handy tips to trim your pet’s nails like a pro.
Gather The Necessary Tools
- Nail clippers are one of the essential tools needed for trimming nails. However, nail clippers may vary depending on the type of pet. For instance, scissors or guillotine-style clippers are ideally used for dogs.
On the other hand, small scissor-style clippers are used for felines. In addition, have one person assist during the task. The task becomes easier when one person holds the pet’s hands while the other trims the nails.
Offer Treats
- Treats work best almost in every situation. They offer a distraction from the nail trim, keep your pet comfortable, and make the process positive for the pet. For example, a pet nervous about the nail trimming will move around and become irritated.
So, keep the favorite treat around while trimming nails, as this can make the whole process much easier and quicker. A lickable treat in a squeeze tube is great for distracting pets during nail trimming.
Trimming Dog Nails
- Find a comfortable position both for yourself and your pet. Some pets prefer lying on their sides, while others feel better standing. Cut in small amounts and gradually make the nail shorter. This will help you avoid cutting the quick. Quick is a small blood vessel present within the nail bed. When quick is accidentally cut during nail trimming, it bleeds. This is what scares people when it comes to pet nail trimming. Keep something handy to stop the bleeding before you start trimming nails.
However, even if it gets cut, it quickly grows out with the nail over time. But a longer nail will have a longer quick, so be cautious while trimming nails. The outer surface of the nail is rigid, but there is a soft area under the nail. This soft, fleshy area is where the quick lies. Trim carefully when you reach closer to the nail bed.
Trimming Cat Nails
Restraining cats for a nail trim is more challenging than dogs. Felines do not like being forced to lay on their side. Therefore, trimming a cat’s nail while they are standing or being held is generally more accessible. In addition, felines differ from dogs in that their nails are retractable. Therefore, you can only see the whole nail once you push around the paw pad to bring the nail out. Since cats have white nails, it is easier to see through the nails. Usually, just one clip is required to trim the nail. This is helpful because cats are less patient than dogs.
How Often Should You Trim Your Pet’s Nails?
The frequency of nail trimming depends on the surface your pet walks on. For instance, a dog that walks on the concrete surface needs trimming less often than a dog that walks on grass.
Moreover, dogs feel much more comfortable when their nails do not touch the ground, which puts unwanted pressure on their nails and toes. Therefore, a dog whose nails are long enough to touch the ground can benefit from nail trimming every few weeks.
To ensure your pet’s well-being, getting them medically checked every six months or so is essential. If you live in Charlottesville, VA, or nearby areas, consult Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center. We provide medical care for all pet animals. Call us at 434-971-9800.
