Happy Feet: Why Nail Trimming Is Essential for Your Pet’s Health
A nice pedicure should be part of everyone’s self-care routine. Whether we are talking about people, dogs, or cats, our nails need attention. Pet nail care is an important component of grooming for all creatures, and Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital is here to help you accomplish that task.
The Importance of Pet Nail Care
Keeping your pet’s toenails trimmed should be part of routine care at home. While animals may naturally wear down their nails through day to day exercise, many need out help in keeping them from becoming overgrown.
Overgrown nails can have some serious consequences such as:
- Creating abnormal forces resulting in pressure on areas not intended to be strained
- Changing the pets posture and gait, which can lead to compensatory discomfort
- Increased risk of catching the nail and breaking it
- Ingrown nails resulting in pain and infection
Just adding a few minutes to your pet’s grooming routine can avoid a lot of trouble.
Tips for Trimming Pet Nails
Most people are able to trim their pet’s nails at home without significant trouble. Setting yourself up for success is key, though!
Make sure that you are ready to go and have your needed supplies at hand before starting. A sharp pair of pet nail trimmers, a file or grinder to smooth, and something like styptic powder (Qwik Stop is commonly used) in case you cut a nail too deep should be on hand.
Our staff’s best tips for success include:
- Clear the area: Being able to visualize what you are doing is important. Work in good lighting, and have a friend or family member help you keep your pet still. Keeping long toe fur cut shorter is also helpful. Watch a video or demonstration ahead of time so you feel good about how to trim.
- Make it fun: Many pets are nervous about having their nails trimmed. Be sure to praise them often and give them breaks as needed. A well-timed special snack can be helpful, and some pets may hold still better if distracted by a lick mat covered in canned food or peanut butter.
- Come back often: If you trim often, you will have less work to do next time! You can give your pet a quick trim every two to three weeks.
Some pets really do not appreciate having their nails trimmed, possibly due to a bad experience, discomfort from arthritis or other issues, or just an aversion to having their paws handled.
For these pets, you may need help. Positive reinforcement and patience can help you to work through these issues in some instances, but other times a mild prescription sedative may be needed.
In some instances, it is not possible to safely trim their pet’s nails at home. In these situations we can provide in clinic services with sedation as necessary.
Trimming pet nails is an important way to keep them feeling and functioning their best. Let us know how we can help you, because helping pets feel their best is important to us.