Nail Trimming
This can be done at home if you choose, just be sure you have the proper cat nail clippers. The earlier in the kitten’s life you start and the more routinely you trim their nails, the easier it will become as your cat ages. If you trim too much off the nail, you will clip the “quick” and bleeding will occur. If your cat has white or clear nails, you can see the pink of the quick through the nail. This pink area is what you want to avoid clipping. If your cat has black nails, start by trimming only a very small amount at a time. Sometimes clipping less, but doing it more often, may be the simplest way to deal with black nails. Always use a sharp clipper, as dull ones will crush the nail instead of cutting it and this can be very painful. If you would like to learn how to trim your kitten’s nails, we can book a training appointment with you (this cost is included in the Head Start Kitten Package). If you are not comfortable with trimming your kitten’s nails at home, you can also book an appointment with us to trim them for you.
Declawing
Surgical declawing is the removal of the last joint of all the “fingers” of the cat’s front paws. It is like removing your own finger at the first joint. Please keep in mind, once a cat is declawed, it should NEVER be allowed outside unsupervised because they can no longer defend themselves. We prefer that declawing is considered a last resort and that other options are tried first. We do not perform declawing at our clinic and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association does not support the performance of this procedure for behavioral reasons. We do have a great program to address cat scratching and clawing, so please call for more information if you are concerned about these behaviors in your cat.
How-to-tips
- Brushing: Choosing the Right Grooming Tool
- Nail Trims: Free for all Plan members at each examination visit, as well as a free demo.