How to Clip Cat Claws Safely

by Carrie Profenno: Author, lifelong Mainer & veteran Maine Coon owner

Most cats nowadays are not declawed, which means we cat owners need to know how to clip cat claws.

With a little practice, you will get a routine down and be able to trim your Maine Coon's nails safely and quickly.

"Why Do I Need to Know How to Clip Cat Claws?"

Regular nail clipping is part of routine cat care. It helps keep your Maine Coon comfortable, prevents damage to your home, and reduces the risk of injury to both your cat and yourself.

If a cat's claws are never clipped, some issues can arise:

Overgrowth: The claws will continue to grow, becoming long and sharp. Over time, they may curl back into the paw pads, causing pain, discomfort, and even infection.

Damage to Furniture and Skin: Without regular trimming, a cat's claws can easily snag on carpets, furniture, and even human skin.

This can lead to torn claws or scratches, which can be painful for both the cat and the owner.

Difficulty Walking: Overgrown claws can affect your Coonie's ability to walk comfortably. They may alter their gait to avoid putting pressure on their paws, leading to joint and muscle issues over time.

Behavioral Issues: Cats may become more aggressive or anxious if their claws become a source of discomfort, leading to behavioral changes like increased scratching or reluctance to be handled.

These are all good reasons to learn how to clip cat claws! It's actually very quick and easy.

Luckily, Maine Coons are notoriously chill kitties, and cooperative when being handled.

Make it a part of your regular "cat-spa day," and you'll both feel more comfortable.

Nail Clipping Made Easy - Keep Those Claws in Check!

Trimming your cat's claws might seem tricky, but with a little practice, it can be a stress-free routine for both of you.

How to clip cat claws? The key is to avoid cutting the quick—the pink area inside the nail that contains nerves and blood vessels.

When clipping, focus on just trimming the sharp, curved tip of the claw.

For cats with light-colored nails, the quick is usually visible as a pinkish area inside the nail.

But what about dark or black nails?

Here’s a tip: Look at the surface of the claw after you clip. If you see a black or dark spot in the center, you're getting close to the quick and should stop trimming.

To make things easier, start by clipping just a tiny bit off the tip. Use a well-lit area, and don't hesitate to reward your cat with a treat afterward to create a positive experience.

"My Cat's Nails Are Bleeding!"

If you accidentally hit the quick while trimming your cat's claws and there's bleeding, don't panic - this is a common mistake. Here's what to do:

• Stay Calm: Your cat might be startled, so keeping calm will help soothe them.

• Apply Pressure: Use a clean cloth or gauze to apply gentle pressure to the nail. This helps stop the bleeding.

• Styptic Powder: If you have styptic powder on hand, apply a small amount to the bleeding nail. It helps clot the blood quickly. If you don’t have styptic powder, cornstarch or flour can also work in a pinch.

• Keep Your Cat Calm: Hold your cat gently but securely until the bleeding stops, which usually takes a few minutes.

• Monitor: Keep an eye on the nail for any signs of infection, like swelling or continued bleeding. If you're concerned, contact your vet for advice.

Remember, accidents happen! With a little care, your cat will be just fine.

"What Kind of Nail Clippers Should I Use?"

Guillotine-style clippers are a type of pet nail trimmer designed to make claw clipping easier and more precise.

They feature a small hole where you insert the cat's claw. When you squeeze the handle, a blade slides up and slices through the nail, similar to a guillotine.

Key Features:

• Single-Blade Design: The blade cuts from one side, which some people find easier to control compared to scissor-style clippers.

• Small Opening: The claw fits into a small opening, which helps in positioning the nail correctly for a clean cut.

• Ease of Use: These clippers are especially useful for those who are new to trimming cat claws because they allow for a quick, straightforward cut.

Tips for Using Guillotine Clippers:

• Make sure the blade is sharp to avoid crushing the nail.

• Position the claw so only the tip is inside the opening—avoid getting too close to the quick.

• Hold the clippers steady and use a gentle but firm squeeze to make the cut.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) About How to Clip Cat Claws:

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Once you've learned how to clip cat claws, regular nail trimming can become a smooth part of your cat's grooming routine. Your Coonie will thank you for it!

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