Whether you already understand it or not, cats scratching things is an instinctive behavior. While their claws provide defense, in addition they allow cats to speak with other felines in the realm with visual and olfactory signals. That’s not a problem in relation to the trees outside, but it surely’s one other matter when it’s your couch that they’re digging their nails into. You could have three plans of attack: You possibly can put up barriers to maintain your pet from destroying your stuff, you possibly can try positive reinforcement training to get them to scratch appropriate things, or you possibly can cut it off on the source—literally.
Trimming your cat’s claws is a very important a part of cat ownership. Just like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), we don’t advocate declawing. As a substitute, we recommend trimming them. We understand for those who’re wondering learn how to trim a cat’s nails that won’t allow you to. It’s not like they make it easy. Nevertheless, our guide offers recommendations on ways to make the experience less dramatic for each of you.
Before You Start
One of the best technique to make this task easier is to get your pet used to the method. Which means handling them and their paws continuously in order that they get used to it, preferably from a young age. You too can use every pet owner’s secret weapon: treats. Food has a remarkable way of constructing animals comfortable doing things they wouldn’t normally do. We recommend getting something special for this task, reminiscent of tuna, given the feline preference for it.
Cats are naturally wary of latest things of their environment. It’s helpful to get them used to the belongings you’re going to make use of to clip their nails before you begin. Allow them to explore the clippers on their very own time as an alternative of yours. Also, understand that even essentially the most docile pet may bite. Felines don’t like being restrained and can often fight it. Subsequently, you could wish to enlist a helper to assist hold your cat or to run the clippers whilst you hold.
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The article of lots of the items used for trimming a cat’s nails is to reduce injuries to you and your pet. It’s in everyone’s best interest to get the job done as quickly and safely as possible. The materials you could need include the next:
- Large towel
- Pheromone spray (optional)
- Nail clipper
- Styptic powder
- Treats
Easy methods to Restrain a Cat for Nail Clipping
1. Let Your Cat Sniff the Towel if Using One
We equate curiosity with cats for an excellent reason. Breeds vary in how outgoing or shy they’re. Nevertheless, familiarity brings a certain comfort. That’s why we propose letting your cat sniff the towel and clippers you’re going to make use of for a couple of days before you are trying to groom them. Novel objects may put an animal on the defense, so allow your pet to take their time and investigate things at their very own pace.
2. Apply Pheromone Spray to the Items
For some cats, pheromone sprays may be calming in stressful situations. Being restrained for nail clipping can undoubtedly qualify as considered one of those stressful situations. These products simulate pheromones a cat releases in comforting times, reminiscent of snuggling with their mother and littermates. It’s an olfactory all-is-well signal that will make this task more manageable and fewer stressful. Spray the items, area and your hands about quarter-hour before attempting nail trims.
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3. Wrap Your Pet in a Towel
A thick towel will protect you from getting scratched. In spite of everything, there’s an excellent reason you’ve decided to clip your pet’s nails. Fold the towel in half lengthwise and lay it out on the ground or table. Starting at one end, wrap the towel snuggly around your cat’s body burrito-style. The top must be protruding one end and unobscured in order that your cat can breathe easily. This may keep their legs contained and offer you control of their head at the identical time. When you’re trimming their nails, hold your kitty near your body. This could comfort a frightened pet and help things get done as quickly and safely as possible.
4. Expose One Paw at a Time and Trim the Tip of the Nails
Bring out one paw at a time. Your cat will likely instinctively extend their claws to understand for something. Push each nail forward to reveal the tip. Make certain to search for the short (the red line extending about half the length of the claw) beforehand and only trim the tip where there is no such thing as a quick. Trim small amounts until the nail is as short as you wish it. Have the styptic powder ready for those who occur to go too short and the nail starts to bleed.
5. Reward Your Cat
Reward your cat with a treat for his or her cooperation after clipping their first paw. This motion builds a foundation for a positive association with this task. Your kitty still may object to being restrained the following time you do it, nonetheless, you’ll likely find there’s less drama once your pet realizes what lies at the top of the proverbial tunnel.
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6. Speak Softly to Your Cat as You Switch Paws
Speak softly to your pet while clipping their nails. Research has shown that cats find their owners’ presence comforting during stressful times. If someone helps you, make sure you’re the one holding your kitty while the opposite person does the trimming.
7. Remove the Towel and Finish With a Treat
Whenever you’re done, be certain that to finish on a positive note with one other treat. Your cat likely has an escape on their mind. Something yummy may distract your pet and put the main target back on an excellent experience. You possibly can leave the materials you utilized in the room in order that your cat can come back and check them out again in the event that they want.
Final Thoughts
Nail clipping doesn’t should be an ordeal for you and your cat each time you do it. Letting them get comfortable and used to the gear you’re going to make use of well before you begin may really enable you to. Nurturing a positive association between nail cropping and treats is important as it could actually help spare each you and your cat from injury. Hopefully, they’ll soon get used to the method and it won’t be such a hassle the following time.
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