How do you get a cat used to claw trimming if they tend to freak out?

1. 80

   Neinahpetsposted 11 years ago

   How do you get a cat used to claw trimming if they tend to freak out?
   
   For anyone who trims their cats claws or knows about it... I have a cat that I've rarely undergone this feat with in her 2 years of life because she won't allow it without turning my hands and arms into shredded meat.  It always takes two people, and one of us is getting hurt.  Have you had a cat like this, how do you handle it?
   
   

   replyreport
2. 60

   klidstone1970posted 11 years ago

   I use to work in a veterinary clinic and it usually always is a two man job.  At times if a cat was extremely hissy, we would wrap them in a large towel or blanket to keep them a little contained.  Trimming your cats nails frequently might also help, allowing your cat to get familiar with it.  Another option would be to bring your cat to a pet groomer.  Good Luck.

   replyreport
   1. 80

      Neinahpetsposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      Thank you very much klidstone1970.  Burrito kitty might be a good idea to try before I spend money on a groomer.

      replyreport
3. 0

   lisasuniquevoiceposted 11 years ago

   You should touch your cat's paws each time you pet them to make them feel comfortable when it's time to clip their nails. Also, I find it easier to do their nails right when they're waking up from a nap. Just quickly zero in on the job at hand and you'll be done before the cat is fully awake.
   Lisa

   replyreport
   1. 80

      Neinahpetsposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      That sounds like a good idea!  Thank you very much!

      replyreport
4. 75

   Meisjunkposted 11 years ago

   My Prince Fredward does not like anybody to touch his feet at all. If I were to touch them, whether he's wide awake, sleeping, or just waking up, he'd freak out. xD
   
   Luckily, I've found that if I have someone hold him by the scruff of his neck, he goes stiff. I'm then able to easily hold his paws spread open. He might still make some noise if it takes too long, or even try to slowly pull his leg away, but he hasn't tried to bite or claw each of the times we've done it since.
   
   I've also been told that a large potato bag clip can be used instead of a second person, but I haven't tried this yet. Either way, good luck! Let me know how it goes.

   replyreport
   1. 80

      Neinahpetsposted 11 years agoin reply to this

      I love that name, Fredward.  Thank you for telling me about your experience!

      replyreport