Caring for Rabbit Nails

Rabbits nails need to be trimmed regularly as long nails are uncomfortable for the rabbit. These intelligent, delicate creatures are inclined to struggle when you try to handle them which makes clipping a rabbit's nails difficult. Once the rabbit gets used to being held, the process becomes easier. Some rabbit experts recommend trimming the nails every two weeks, others suggest every six to eight weeks. Check your rabbit's nails regularly to see if they need to be trimmed.

Things You'll Need

  • Pet nail clippers
  • Towel (optional)
  • Flashlight (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Go to your local pet store to purchase a pair of clippers. You probably won't find any in the small animal section so try the cat section. Clippers come in a variety of styles including guillotine, scissor and spring-loaded. Groomers at the Minnesota Companion Rabbit Society prefer the spring-loaded style.

    • 2

      Kneel on the floor to pick up your rabbit using one hand under its legs and the other under its ribs. Turn your rabbit on its back in your lap with its legs up and its head tucked into the crook of your arm. Some people wrap their rabbit in a towel and pull one leg out at a time for clipping.

    • 3

      Push down gently on the tip of your rabbit's foot so you can see the nail. Like other animals, rabbits have a quick running through the nail and if you cut into the quick, it will bleed. For rabbits with light colored nails, use the clippers to clip the nail to just before the quick.

    • 4

      Shine a flashlight on your rabbit's nails if they are dark in color. The light helps you to see the quick in the nail. Alternatively, sit near a bright light when trimming your rabbit's nails.