Cat Bites When Trimming Nails (What to Do)

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Cat Bites When Trimming Nails (What to Do)

It can be very tasking when it comes to trimming cats’ nails. Some cats are very relaxed and wouldn’t mind having extra help for grooming, while others would bite, scratch, and struggle to stop their owners from cutting their nails.

It is advisable to trim your cat’s nails for many reasons, as they can grow sharp and long. Cats end up hurting their humans, spoiling furniture, and most times, their sharp and long nails can prevent them from adequately grooming themselves.

As crucial as trimming your cat’s nails is, many cat owners find it difficult to cut their nails without the cat attempting to hurt them. There is no doubt that cats are harder to train or understand; they are not very expressive, so it is tough to understand them fully.

However, knowing the secret to successfully trimming their nails will help elude you from getting hurt and prevent the cat from going through stress. Some cats that have had bad experiences from trimming will fight tooth and nail against it.

So what do you do to make the situation less unpleasant for you and the cat? As we discuss everything you need to know about trimming your cat’s nails, you are about to find that out. Stay glued to this article.

Cat lying down
Image: @tascha_aleks via Twenty20

Why Is It Important To Trim Cats Nails?

It is essential to trim your cat’s nails now and then. Your cat may not appreciate this gesture; however, that shouldn’t stop or discourage you from getting those killer nails cut short. The pins or claws must be managed for your sake and the sake of your adorable cat.

Cats are fond of kneading their owners out of love and affection; instead of this adorable experience, it can be excruciating and unbearable for owners due to the sharp claws looking into the skin.

Another reason not to be discouraged about cutting your cat’s nails is that sometimes mistakes happen, and your cat may end up giving deep cuts to its nails.

You might save your furniture from getting scratched when you trim your cat’s nails. Although cats may not always be interested in leaving a mark on furniture there is a possibility they would.

Cats with long claws are prone to have broken nails; if left untreated, this can lead to an infection. Even if your cat tries to prevent you from trimming its nails, make sure to go appropriately through with it because overgrown nails can sometimes grow into your cat’s paw pad and cause discomfort and difficulty walking for your pet.

Properly Trimming Cats Claws: Step-By-Step Guide

Trust me; it won’t be easy if you have an aggressive cat that strongly frowns at nail trimming. However, the step-by-step guide would be beneficial to you;

Step 1. Start Early

Trimming your cat’s nails from when it was a kitten will get him accustomed to the routine and get him used to it as it continues to grow and develop. This reduces the aggressiveness of the cat as time goes on.

Step 2: Find The Right Time

Your cat has to be in a good, calm, and happy mood before you attempt to trim its nails. Most owners successfully rim their feline friend claws when they are sleepy. Trim the nails in a serene area without distractions and void of noise. This is because noise can be very stressful for cats and can sometimes get them worked up.

Hungry cat
Image: @robinmccauley via Twenty20

Step 3: Trim The Nails

Now that you are sure your cat is very relaxed and calm, you can trim its nails. Make sure to hold your cat in a firm position. Then press out the paw to expose the nails. Only the claws should be cut off. Ensure to stay away from the quick (the part of the nail that is somewhat pink).

You ought to avoid the quick because it is full of nerves and blood vessels, and you will get scratched or bitten if it is tampered with.

Step 4: Take It One Nail At A Time

Try not to rush your cat through this process. Cut the claws slowly and gently to make sure your cat doesn’t get hurt or feel any discomfort.

Step 5: Take Breaks When Necessary

If your cat is beginning to get temperamental or angry while you are still timing its nails, it is definitely time to give it a break. Ignoring the signs your cat is showing might only get you stretched or bitten, so it is best to take time outs and continue later when your cat is more relaxed.

Step 6: Reward Your Cat

Once you are done trimming the nails, reward your cat for staying put. This would encourage it to be patient until after you are done, as there will always be a treat after the process. Make sure not to give your cat the treat before you start trimming its nails.

Final Thoughts

Before you start trimming your cat’s nails, you should make sure to be physically and mentally ready to get it done. First, you must have all the necessary tools to cut the claws; then, you must be relaxed.

Do not trim your cat’s nails if you and your feline friend are stressed. You can help your mood by listening to calm music and relaxing your cat by giving it stress relief pheromones.

Overlooking your cat’s bad mood and going ahead to trim its nails will only get you hurt. You can get your cat ready for a trim days before the actually trimming day by occasionally massaging its legs.

Once you understand all of the tips in this article and put them to use, trimming your cats will cease to be an unpleasant experience for you both.



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