How to Trim Your Pet's Nails

Whether you have a cat or a dog, it is important to keep your pet's nails trimmed. This is beneficial to you and your guests, as it ensures everyone's safety, even during rough play. This is also a good thing for your pets; they can experience comfort and avoid accidentally hurting themselves while scratching.

1. First: Familiarize your pet with the nail clippers

   Make sure nail clippers are visible to your pet. Let him or her sniff and investigate them. Talk to your pet in a calm voice, and stroke your pet's fur gently. Associating positive feelings with the experience helps to prevent anxiety while you are trimming your pet's nails.

2. Second: Place your pet in a comfortable position for clipping

   You may wish to hold your pet or place your pet on the floor. Most owners prefer to place their pets on their backs for the best view. As long as you can view your pet's nails and keep your pet still and comfortable while you clip, the position is acceptable.

3. Third: Make sure you can see the quick

   Sometimes mud or other debris gets stuck under the tip of the nail so you are unable to see where the quick begins. Clean out the debris before you clip, so you can avoid hurting your pet.

4. Fourth: Clip the nails

   Trim the nails to about 2 millimeters above the quick. As long as you do not cut into the quick, your pet is not going to bleed, nor does your pet feel any pain.