How to Clip a Cat's Claws

Clipping a cat’s claws can be beneficial to both you and your cat. Shorter claws means less scratching and destroyed furniture. Letting your cat's nails get too long can also be problematic to your cat. They can get caught in furniture or their scratching post and can also break of and bleed. Trimming your cat’s claws isn’t as difficult as it seems. With a little bit of patience and care, you can easily maintain your cat’s claws. Clipping your cat's claws is a wonderful alternative to having their claws removed, and it is a quick and simple process.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat nail clippers
  • Nail file
  • Cat treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the cat in your lap. It is usually best to clip your cat’s claws when your cat is in a restful state. If you would like, you can place a towel under your cat to pad your lap in case he tries to resist.

    • 2

      Place one of your cat’s front paws in your hand. Using your thumb and index finger, gently press on your cat’s paw to reveal its claws. Locate the “quick” of your cat’s claw--it is the pinkish area of the claw. You do not want to clip near this area. It will be painful and cause bleeding.

    • 3

      Once situated, grab your nail clippers and begin clipping the tips of your cat’s claws, again careful not to go near the quick of the claw. Hold the clippers in a vertical position (up and down) to lessen the chance of the nails splitting. If your cat starts to get restless and resists, then stop. You can always finish the rest at a later time. You do not want to make this into a traumatic experience for your kitty.

    • 4

      File your cat's claws. This will help prevent them from cracking and splitting.

    • 5

      Give your cat a treat; he’s earned it!