How to Cut and Care for Cat Nails Naturally With Dignity

Scratching posts set up in your home are a great way for your cat to maintain its nail health. Although using the scratching post allows cats to sharpen their nails, it also removes dead tissue from the nail beds. Sometimes, your kitty won't use the scratching post or can't get to all of its nails and needs a little help from you. Approaching your cat in a non-threatening manner and being gentle with it during the nail-cutting process will make it a less stressful, more dignified event for you and your cat.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat treats
  • Nail clippers
  • Nail file (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin trimming your cat's claws while it is still a kitten to get it used to the procedure. Clip the nails every two to three weeks to promote good nail health.

    • 2

      Make the act of nail cutting as enjoyable as possible for your cat. Wait for a time when it has come to you -- never chase after a cat to cut its nails as this will only raise their anxiety level and possibly get you scratched.

    • 3

      Place your cat in your lap and stroke its fur gently and talk to it in low tones. Give it a couple of cat treats to put it as ease.

    • 4

      Place one of your cat's front paws between your thumb, forefinger and middle finger and gently apply pressure until the claws are exposed.

    • 5

      Use the same nail clippers you use for your nails or specially designed cat nail clippers and begin clipping its nails. Start from one end on the foot and work your way around to the other side.

    • 6

      Clip only the white part on the end of the nail. Avoid clipping beyond the white part into the quick, which will cause your cat to bleed, Continue clipping this way for all the claws on the first foot, then trim all claws on the other front foot.

    • 7

      Use a nail file on the edge of the nail if the clip resulted in a jagged edge. Give you cat a couple more treats to reward it for sitting through the process.