How to Use the Guillotine Nail Trimmer on My Kitten

Having a cat de-clawed used to be a common way to prevent a cat from shredding the living room sofa or drawing blood as she lovingly kneaded her owner's leg. This practice has become increasingly frowned upon as many veterinarians are speaking out against it. The reason is that de-clawing is not like a simple cutting of a nail; it requires the amputation of the last joint in the cat's toes. While there are several ways to save the sofa or protect your leg, one of the most effective ways is to keep your cat's claws trimmed. The Guillotine nail trimmer is a tool especially designed to make it easy to trim pets' claws.

Things You'll Need

  • Guillotine nail trimmer
  • Styptic powder
  • Nail file or emery board
  • Kitty treats
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Instructions

  1. Preparation, Trimming, The Aftermath

    • 1

      Ensure the kitten is relaxed. Grooming a stressed animal can lead to injury, both to the pet and the owner. Petting and praising your cat will help her relax. Hold the kitten gently but firmly. Some cats only need to lie on your lap while others might prefer to rest under an arm. Others may need to be held gently on a table by one person while another does the actual trimming. Determine the position most comfortable to the kitten and always use it for claw trimming.

    • 2

      Hold the Guillotine nail trimmer so the blade faces you and not the claw. This will help prevent cutting too close to the quick. Take the paw in your hand and gently press the toe pad between your thumb and one finger to expose the claw. Examine the claw, taking note of where the pink quick begins. This is the area where blood vessels and nerve endings are located, and cutting here will result in bleeding and pain for the animal.

      Slide the nail into the aperture of the trimmer so that the clipping action will cut from the front curve of the claw to the back curve. Do not cut the claw from side to side. Confirm that the cut will be about halfway between the tip of the claw and the beginning of the quick.

      Squeeze the clipper to perform the cut in one smooth motion.

      Stay calm if the quick is accidentally cut and bleeding results. Soothe and pet the cat to calm it. Bleeding usually stops quickly but if it does not, apply styptic powder to the cut.

      Smooth any rough nail ends with a simple emery board or nail file.

      Repeat each step with every claw.

    • 3

      Provide a special food treat that is only offered after claw clippings. This will provide a reason for the cat to accept the process. Praise and pet the kitten after the clipping is done, both to return her to calmness and to positively reinforce cooperative behavior.

      Clip claws regularly so it becomes an expected part of the kitten's routine. This will minimize stress for the cat and you. Don't worry if the cat won't sit still for all 10 claws at once. Try again another day.