Nail trimming – for dogs and cats – is a regular part of your pet’s grooming that should be pretty easy to do at home. Doing it at home can save you a little money at the groomer’s. Some veterinarians trim nails for free during a regular appointment, but this means waiting six months or more for the next trim.
So to try nail trimming at home — just like anything – you will need the right TOOLS and SUPPLIES.
Clippers
There are two main types of nail clippers: Scissor-style and guillotine style. We prefer the SCISSOR-STYLE clipper to the GUILLOTINE-STYLE clipper.
The SCISSOR-STYLE of pet nail clipper – pictured right — applies pressure from two sides. We find it easier to control the nail cut with this type of tool as it is similar to using a pair of scissors in which you are bringing both sides together to make a cut.
On the other hand, the GUILLOTINE-STYLE of clipper — pictured left — requires that you slide the blade over the nail. The clipper then applies pressure from one side to the other. We find this style more difficult to use.
IN CLIPPING YOUR DOG’S OR CAT’S NAILS, CAREFULLY TRIM RIGHT ABOVE THE “QUICK” OR THE PINK AREA WITHIN THE NAIL WHERE THE NERVES AND BLOOD VESSELS ARE. IF YOU ARE NOT SURE, ASK YOUR VETERINARIAN. CUTTING TOO MUCH INTO THE NAIL CAN BE PAINFUL TO YOUR PET AND CAN CAUSE EXCESSIVE BLEEDING.
Nail grinder
Nail grinders for pets are becoming very popular. They remove the rough edges AFTER you trim the nails. Removing the rough edges is important to prevent nails from chipping and splitting. A split nail can be very painful and can necessitate a trip to the vet for your pet. For a good quality nail grinder, expect to pay $30 or slightly more. A lower-priced version can have a weak motor and may not do the job.
Styptic powder
Should you cut into the “quick” of your pet’s nail, bleeding can be profuse. Styptic powder is used to stop bleeding. It’s used externally and packed onto the wound. See package directions.
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We are starting to see a number of new “smart” products for pets that offer the benefit of early detection of various health problems. We cannot stress enough that these products do NOT replace the need for annual – and preferably twice annual – exams by your pet’s veterinarian. Keep in mind that each cat or dog year equals five to seven human years – so that is a long time to go without seeing the doctor.
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