There are a few things cats really don't like. One is being fed medicine. However, by and far, the thing that cats hate the most is having their nails and paws messed with. Unfortunately, trimming those razor sharp claws can be necessary if your feline needs to have their gripping tools limited a bit.
Prepare for the Struggle
The first step is to find a method by which to restrain your cat so he or she won't scratch or bite. The cat's first defense, believe it or not, will be to bite, and a cat bite can hurt like the dickens, especially on your hand. With the cat's mouth blocked, usually with a neck cone for good measure so your feline can't get reasonable reach, then it's time to restrain the claws. Two methods work with reasonable success: a towel, and a special cat restraint bag. Either way, the cat needs to be wrapped comfortably so the other three paws with claws don't get in the way with the claws you are working on. The cat bag is ideal and often used by groomers because the other paws are kept restrained and out of harm's way, with only the target paw accessed by zipper for the work needed.
Understand the Kung Fu of Cat Restraint
The second step is to carefully hold the target paw so you can trim the nails. The cat's normal reaction will be to pull back with the paw, with claws extended, which can produce some nasty cuts if you're not careful. Instead, the arm should be secured at the elbow so the cat can't pull it back effectively. This will still allow the cat to extend its claws, which actually makes it easier to trim them individually.
Plan Twice, Cut Carefully Once
The third step is the actual cutting. The nail will appear clearly as the cat gets irritated and wants to grip something. The clipper end, with cat trimmer tools, should be cut enough to make the claw a nub, but not so deep it cuts the wick. Be careful about this as the wick will be extremely painful and the cat will react accordingly. Once the cat's nails are clipped, give them a quick sanding to prevent splits and let them retract the paw back into the towel or bag.
Don't Lose Your Patience
Try to avoid manhandling your cat. This will cause it to fear you and avoid your company later on after too many rough treatments. Be patient, and make the nail-trimming experience a comfortable one. A calm cat will be far easier to work with than one ready to bite and claw anything that comes near it for a week.
Be Your Cat's Santa Claus After Every Trim
Also, finally, give your cat a treat after a trim. Don't let them associate the experience as always something negative. If the animal realizes that the trimming event also produces something desirable, it may decide to tolerate your intrusion long enough to get the job done. Don't expect miracles, but a tasty treat often helps a cat forget what just happened and avoids associating bad memories with a given towel, tool or location.
Of course, if you don't want to take chances and prefer to have an expert time trim the cat nails on your pet, the Junction City Animal Care Clinic is always available to help. Our team have years of experience gently handling cats and helping them maintain trimmed paws, saving you from risk of scratches as well as your house from damage. Call us to find out more and schedule an appointment!