trimming a cats claws.

[dave0010]

How do you all go about it? our Bengal is not appreciative about this at all!! he goes outside lots but still doesn't seam to blunt them very much. Any advice for the best way to do this?

[bexVN]

How long are they? Unless they are curling round considerably they shouldn't need clipping unless it is an older cat.

Is he handleable at a vets (most bengals aren't!!) they could show you the best way.

When I have done my cats at home (due to age) I tuck them into my lap then hold one paw and gently extend the claw. I would start by just taking tips off. Over clipping can actually affect nail growth and cause claws to thicken (also seen in older cats when they become poorer at grooming)

Cat claws are layered, when they scratch posts they are not just sharpening claws they are loosening up the outer layer, this process should keep them in check, providing a variety of materials to scratch on to help.

It can become a battle for a cat that does not like to be 'manhandled' generally one that isn't worth it unless they are causing him issues!

[Doofus]

dave0010 said:

How do you all go about it? our Bengal is not appreciative about this at all!! he goes outside lots but still doesn't seam to blunt them very much. Any advice for the best way to do this?

They are not supposed to be blunt.

[bexVN]

http://icatcare.org/advice/how-trim-your-cats-claw...

This is a link to the advice on clipping claws from the international cat care site (very good site)

It also states it shouldn't need doing.

[RobDickinson]

We do both of ours. Mogglet is a softy and just lets us get on with it, she goes out some but they always grow around and back into her pads if we dont.

Merlin is 16-17 now and isnt doing enough to keep his down , he'd rather we didnt but kind of puts up with it.

[Parsnip]

Our house bound Bengal needs hers done every so often - doesn't seem to bother her too much - easier with two people doing it though so you can get the best angle.

She is a 3-wheeler though, so less claws to trim