How to Maintain Healthy Pet Nails

Maintaining your pet's nails is vital to their overall health. Nails that are too long can cause a great deal of discomfort if they become ingrown. This causes the surrounding area to become swollen and tender and makes it difficult for your pet to walk. You can care for your pet's nails at home if you have the right tools or you can leave the job to your vet.

Things You'll Need

  • nail clippers
  • coagulant to stop nail bleeding
  • nail files
  • rubbing alcohol
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sterilize all of the tools that you will use to trim your pet's nails.

      Soak everything in rubbing alcohol for 10 minutes. Dry thoroughly before using.

    • 2

      Clip your pets nails on a regular basis or every three weeks.

      Nails that are allowed to get too long can cause health problems in pets. The nails can become ingrown and cause your pets feet to become sore and makes it difficult for them to walk. This can also cause problems in their joints and hips.

    • 3

      Clipping your pet's nails too short will result in cutting your animals blood vessel, called the quick.

      Cutting the quick will cause bleeding. Avoid doing this by trimming only a little of the nail at a time.

    • 4

      File the nails with a nail file designed for pets.

      Make sure that you file the edges smooth so the nails can't catch on anything and tear.