How to Trim Pet Rabbit Nails

A rabbit's nails can get very long and require trimming. Trips to the vet to perform this procedure can be expensive. You can trim your rabbit's nails and save yourself a trip to the vet. The process is quick and painless if done properly.

Things You'll Need

  • Small pet nail clippers
  • Towels
  • Styptic powder or flour
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Play with your rabbit's feet for a few days before the first trim to get him used to you touching his feet. If he's already used to having his feet handled, you can skip this step.

    • 2

      Choose nail clippers that you can manage easily. Cat toenail clippers work well to trim rabbit nails.

    • 3

      Gather your materials. Place them within easy reach of your workspace.

    • 4

      Place a towel on your lap. Set your rabbit on your lap facing away from you. Pet your rabbit and talk to him to calm him before you begin the process.

    • 5

      Take the rabbit's foot into your non-dominant hand. Quickly clip off just the ends of each toenail on that foot. Repeat on the other feet.

    • 6

      Trim just a small portion off each toenail. If you cut too deep, you may cut into the quick. If that happens, the toenail may bleed and the animal may have some pain. Put a small amount of styptic powder or flour on the bleeding nail and hold the rabbit's foot until the bleeding stops.

    • 7

      Wrap a skittish rabbit in a second towel to trim his nails. Hold him firmly so he doesn't get into an awkward, painful position. Pull one paw at a time from the towel to trim. Or ask someone to hold the rabbit in the towel while you cut its nails.