Besides buying a pair of cat claw covers, learning how to properly use cat nail clippers is one of the smartest things you will ever do for your cat.

That is because, as most cat owners will readily agree, inappropriate cat scratching is one of the worst reflexes that they have to endure from their cherished feline friend.

However, most cats have very little patience when it comes to having their claws trimmed. As a result, it is important to learn the proper (and most efficient) method of trimming your pet’s nails. The following suggestions should help.

First, if possible, begin the claw trimming process with your cat when they are young. Preferably, you will start when just a kitten so that the two of you can build up a routine and each will understand that the process need not be stressful or painful.

Second, to get the cat used to the process, determine whether your cat is willing to sit unrestrained on your lap while you trim its claws. If so, considered yourself lucky! If not, gently swaddle your cat in a blanket and towel, removing only the paw that your are currently trimming.

Third, understanding how your cat’s body works is important. Specifically, feline claws are retractile. As a result, it will be necessary to expose each claw by gently pressing against each toe between your thumb and forefinger. Additionally, you must locate each claw’s “quick”, or the pink stripe at the base of each nail. Fortunately, many cats have light covered claws making it relatively easy to view the nerves and blood vessels.

Fourth, cut each claw within two millimeters from the nail’s quick, keeping in mind that if you cut into the cat’s quick, it will be painful for your pet and it will bleed. Make sure to place the clipper perpendicular to the nail and cut top to bottom.

Cat nail clippers placed parallel to the claw with a side to side cut is not recommended as that method will crush the claw, possibly causing it to splinter.

Finally, use a nail file after clipping to smooth out the end of the nail. Evening out any rough areas on the claw is an important part of the process that must not neglected.

As part of your trimming “education”, you will need to determine which type of cat nail clippers work best for you and your pet. Several styles are available including the guillotine-type clipper, a scissors-type clipper, as well as the normal run of the mill human fingernail clipper.

The guillotine type cat clipper is generally thought of as the easiest type to use, although a strong case can be made for using a human fingernail clipper. However, whatever type you eventually choose, mastering the use of cat nail clippers is just another way to avoid having to declaw your cat.

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