Claw clipping
Last reviewed: 20.11.2021
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Most people do not touch the feet of cats until they are about to cut off their claws and ... Gently! Some animals can be very upset because of this alien feeling. Therefore, before you try to shear the cat's claws, it's good to teach her to touch her legs. Rub your cat's foot up and down, and then gently press down on each finger. In doing so, be sure to praise it and give it goodies. All animals are different, but there is a possibility that in a week or two of daily foot massage the cat will perceive clipping of claws with less discontent.
Here's how to do it:
- Gently press the upper part of the foot and the pads of the fingers from below - this is to force it to release the claws.
- Cut the white tip of each claw to the point where it bends, using sharp high-quality scissors to cut off claws in cats.
- Be careful not to touch the blood vessel inside the claw. This pink patch is visible through the claw.
- If you still accidentally clip the pink patch, it can bleed, in which case we can use a hemostatic powder.