How to Gently Cut Cat Claws

   Everyone knows cats love scratching, but not everyone knows why they do it. One of the big reasons is to keep their claws in shape. Cats use their claws constantly and they need to be maintained. In indoor life our feline friends do not have as many opportunities to shed and trim their nails, but we can do something about that. You can cut your cats nails much like you cut your own, and help them to stay comfortable and healthy.

Step 1: Relax Cat

     ​​​Cutting cat claws works best if your cat is nice and relaxed.  Start the process by sitting with your cat and giving them lots of attention and love. My recommendation is  start sitting with your cat in your lap with a blanket separating you. Cats generally love blankets, and this will protect you if the cat gets upset during the manicure.

Step 2: Exposing the Claw

     Make sure you are holding your cat securely and comfortably. Gently push on the pad and top of your cat's toes/fingers. This should extend the claw past the fingertip. If they pull away from you as you push than try with less force.

Step 3: Cutting the Claw

​​     ​With claws out, carefully, but quickly, cut the white/clear part and make sure to stay away from the part of the nail with pink inside. This pink is normal tissue filled with nerves and everything else. I err on the side of cutting less than cutting more.

     ​There you have it, all you need to start cutting your cats nails! Whether you have been asking "Why is my cat scratching my things" or "Why does my cat scratch me when the climb on me" you now have one way to help address the issues you see.