WHAT DO WE DO WITH THOSE NAILS

Cat nails can be an issue. I strongly recommend to all new owners that they live with their new kitten and try some options before they decide that declawing is the only solutions.

The feline nail is quite unique. The tip of which is designed to be sharp and pointed. As the nail grows from the base, the cat’s natural instinct is to claw on something to remove the outer sheath of the nail and thereby retaining a sharp and pointed tip. Cats will find something that to scratch that will aid in this natural process. The favorite scratching items will be something that offers resistance to the nail as it pulls through thereby breaking back the outer edges of the nail to again expose the newly sharpened tip.

Another unique feature of the feline nail is that it can retract back into the paw. This is particularly so on the front feet. The normal position is retracted. The feline would have difficulty maneuvering if the sharp tips of his front paws caught on things.

Cat’s natural instinct to keep their claws sharp will vary from cat to cat. Often a good accessible scratching post is all that is necessary. I have chosen items for my home over the years that would not be attractive to my feline companions. Remember that if a fabric will catch the cat’s nails as oppose to the nail simply sliding through you had better not consider it for your home. If you already have a chair or couch that seems to be the apple of your new friends eye, there are repellent sprays that can be used to discourage feline interest.

The house cat’s nails do need to be kept trimmed. This is really not difficult and you can do it yourself. There are commercial pet nail clippers available. If you purchase one, just be sure you get one small enough for a cat. I personally like the scissor type as oppose to the guillotine variety. I think they are easier to use on smaller animals. It is possible to simply use a human nail clipper that you can buy at any drug store and probably already have at home.

If you keep the nails trimmed they are much less likely to do damage even if the kitty does scratch. Usually a trim once every couple of weeks is sufficient.

Nail trimming is not hard to do. Once you have done it a bit, it will become even easier. Hold the kitty comfortable for you and for him. Press slightly on the toes of the front paw and you will see the nail extend. Simply clip off the tip. Do this on all four feet. Don’t forget the dewclaw on the inside of the front paws! If you or the kitty gets restless before the four paws are clipped, stop and go back later. Don’t fight the process. You might even try a paw or two when your best friend is asleep. You will soon find that you will get quicker and the entire process will become less burdensome for both of you.

You need not be concerned about hurting your feline. If he struggles it is probably because you are restricting him. I’ve given you a sketch of a cat’s nail. They are very much like a human’s. Just like your own nails, stay above the quick of the nail when you clip.

    Step 1- To begin, gently grasp your cat's paw, placing pressure on the pad and on top of the paw so that the nail extends.

    Step 2- Take off a little bit at a time and stop clipping when you see a dark dot in the center of the cut nail. If the nail bleeds,  apply a bleeding inhibitor (available at pet supply stores).

Another nail treatment option is available. Many pet owners have tried and found synthetic nail caps a wonderful solution. Just like the nail caps that women use, these “kitty caps” are glued over the cat’s nails. They will need to be replaced from time to time as the nail grows. And the nail must be clipped before application of the cap. These caps are available in kits with all the material necessary and do come in a range of sizes. You can find them online at http://www.softpaws.com

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