Regularly trimming kittens’ nails is essential to their health. It can also prevent the overgrowth of claws that can cause damage to furniture, flesh, or even blood. Trimming should be done in a room that is quiet and calm, after your cat has eaten.

Your Kitten Will Get Used to It

It can be painful for both the cat and owner to trim their kitten’s nails, but with the right approach, it is relatively painless. Begin by letting your kitten get used to your hand on the paw pads. Gently squeeze their paws over a few days, until they are comfortable with this procedure.

You can start trimming their nails once they feel comfortable. Do this in an area with minimal stress, such as a chair or on your lap, and give lots of praise for letting you touch their paws.

When trimming your cat’s nail, take care not to cut into the quick. If you cut this pink area, it contains blood vessels and nerves that can cause pain or even bleeding. If this happens accidentally, you should use a styptic stick or powder as soon as you can to stop any bleeding.

You should eventually be able trim all your kitten’s claws, but if this proves to be difficult, it is okay if you only do two or three. This will help keep their nails short and avoid issues like overgrown nails which could snag on furniture or puncture the paw pad.

Practice makes perfect

It is best to acclimatize your kitten to regular nail clippings to avoid damage to their feet, furniture and toys. Treats and praise will make this a fun experience for everyone. You can try to swaddle your kitten in a towel or place them on your lap if they start getting upset.

Begin by picking out any nails that need trimming. You can use your thumb to gently press against the pawpads with your forefinger. Then, with your thumb you can gently press against each pawpad. Be careful not to cut into the quick (the pink area closer to their skin). Try trimming your cat’s nails on an angle instead of straight across to ensure they are more natural when walking.

For maximum effect, try doing it at their mealtime or naptime. Being calm and reassuring is the best thing you can do for both of your benefit. Calm music, such as meditation songs or classical guitar, can help both parties relax. Stress-reducers such as Feliway spray are also effective.

The Right Tools

The right tools are essential to trimming cats’ nails. You can use either a pair of pet nail clippers made for cats or a pair of human nail clippers. Also, keep some styptic stick or powder on hand in case your kitten cuts the quick (the pink area under each nail).

If your kitten is apprehensive about having their feet touched, you can help them get used to it by gently touching their pads. You can also offer treats if the kitten remains calm. This should be a daily routine for several days before the actual nail trim.

When you are ready to trim your cat, select a location that is quiet and free of children or other animals who could distract or stress them. Spray Feliway on the area before trimming to calm them down.

Apply light pressure on one of the kitten’s feet. This should cause its claw to extend. Clip away gently at the tip, being careful to avoid pink portions of nails. Once you’ve finished trimming the nails, give your cat a cuddle or some playtime. Do this twice a month to keep their claws in good shape!

Be Patient

It is important to make the experience and environment as stress-free for your kitten as possible when trimming its claws. Kittens are able to read the emotions of their owners very well. If they feel anxious, they may not want to participate. After meals or before bedtime, when your kitten has calmed down, try to keep nail trimming sessions in a quiet place without distractions. You can use music, Feliway spray or treats your cat loves to help everyone stay calm.

It may be helpful to have a blanket or towel on hand to wrap around your cat, and another person nearby to assist if necessary. It is easier for many cats to sit on a chair with their paws being held than stand. Having someone help will make it much more comfortable.

When cutting cat nails, remember to use gentle but firm pressure. If you are too cautious, you may cut the quick which contains blood vessels and nerves. This can cause bleeding. You can take breaks between each nail if needed. Once all the nails have been cut, reward your cat with praise and treats.