How to Clip a Cat's Back Toenails

Trimming your cat's back claws will prevent damage to your furniture and carpet, and some cats will be more cooperative than others. The back claws are coarser and you must be even more careful not to reach the nerve by cutting off too much. In some cases, you may consider trimming a couple at a time if the cat is particularly resistant, suggests the Humane Society, adding that trimming the back claws after front claws is a good strategy since the latter is most disruptive.

Things You'll Need

  • Clippers
  • Styptic pencil, dry soap or cornstarch
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase the right supplies, including clippers and first aid. A variety of pet clippers exist, and some pet owners prefer to use human nail clippers. Aim for sharp clippers, as blunt ones will only crush the nail; this is especially important because the back claws are so much thicker than the front. Another deciding factor should be how comfortable and adept you feel with the clippers. Cat World recommends keeping styptic (a common anti-bleeding agent), cornstarch or dry soap on hand in case you do nip too much and cause bleeding.

    • 2

      Secure the cat in a position where you can take her claws. Some owners hold the cat to the table or floor, while others cradle the cat in the arms. The key is to be able to balance the cat while using the clippers well enough not to botch the job. Consider a second pair of hands to hold the front of the cat so that you can focus on the back paws.

    • 3

      Hold the first paw in your hand and apply pressure to the first nail, allowing it to pop out at full length. Cautiously snip off the tip of the cat's nail. Do not cut near the pink part of the cat's nail, called the quick; this will cause bleeding and pain. Cutting to the quick on back paws are especially painful and bloody. Continue trimming one nail at a time until both paws are complete. The Humane Society suggests breaking this up in multiple sessions if the cat is too agitated.

    • 4

      If the cat's nail bleeds, apply styptic to the claw to stop the bleeding. Alternatively, gently rub the tip along dry soap, or sprinkle cornstarch or flour on the area. The bleeding should stop in about 5 minutes.