Trimming your cat's nails is something neither you or your cat look forward to, but is necessary for their well-being. Keeping their nails at a healthy length prevents overgrowth, infection, and helps protect your furniture! While it may seem like your cat uses their nails to ruin your couches, they serve an important purpose: their nails are protection for when they are outside. Even if you have an indoor cat they need healthy nails in case they go outside. Nail trimming can be a difficult task for cat owners, so here are a few tips to make it more comfortable for you and your cat!

TRIMMING YOUR CAT'S NAILS

On average, you should trim your cat's nails every two to three weeks, but this depends on how fast their nails grow. Most cats don't enjoy having their nails trimmed, which can make the task stressful. If done correctly, nail trimming will not be painful for your cat. Start by gently pressing the top and bottom of their paw to extend their nails. Use a cat nail-trimming tool to snip off the sharp clear tip of the nail. You never want to trim past the tip because cats have what is called the quick. This is the pink part at the base of the nail containing blood vessels and nerve endings that if cut can lead to infection. 

MAKING TRIMMING EASIER

The best thing you can do for your cat is to make sure they are as comfortable as possible. You can give them treats or toys to distract them. It’s easy for your cat to get overwhelmed, so monitoring when they need a break is important. If you are worried about over-trimming your cat's nails, you can use a small flashlight to make sure you don't trim down to the quick. You can also use a special nail trimmer that won't allow you to trim past a certain point because it has a safety guard. 

BRING A FRIEND

Some cats might try to run away so having someone hold your cat while you trim their nails can help prevent over-trimming and make the process faster. If you are not able to get help from another person, try wrapping your cat in a blanket. Leave one of your cat's legs out at a time, and lay them on your lap. This may also help your cat feel less anxious and will stop them from running away. 

Over time you will figure out a routine that works.  Staying consistent with nail trimming is beneficial for their nail and paw health, as well as for your furniture! Always keep the necessary tools in your house like cat nail trimmers, treats, and of course, HoneyCure in case of any accidents!

1. Coates, Jennifer. “Cat Nails: How to Stop before You Hit the Quick.” PetMD, www.petmd.com/cat/grooming/cat-nails-how-stop-you-hit-quick. Accessed 26 June 2023.

2. Mize, Genna. “Trimming Your Cat’s Nails: Why Is It Important?” Virbac, us.virbac.com/home/resources/blog/pagecontent/the-buzz-and-bark-from-virbac/trimming-your-cats-nails-why-is-it-important.html#:~:text=Keeping%20your%20cat’s%20nails%20trimmed,your%20furniture%20from%20unnecessary%20scratches! Accessed 26 June 2023.