Clipping the Alpha Cat's Nails
A Safe Method of Cutting Feline Claws Without Harming Cat or Human
Aug 6, 2009
Obviously, it is easier to overcome a small protesting kitten than a full-grown cat. The theory is by acclimating the cat at an early age the process will become simple. The alpha cat may feel differently.
Incorrect Method of Cutting Cat Nails Harms Pet and Human
Cats do mellow with age and become weaker with passing years. Until that time, an upset or angry 8-pound feline exhibiting several times it body weight in strength with all sharp claws outstretched may resist the procedure as if all 9 of its lives depended on it. Getting scratched by a frightened cat can cause infection and wounds. The cat too, can be harmed if the nails aren’t clipped correctly.
Wrapping the Cat
Do not attempt to carry the cat to a blanket, pounce on it, then begin folding the blanket around the cat. He is faster than the human and will fight and escape. Being the predator in this situation does not bode well for the human.
Place the cat on a firm surface on a large thick blanket or towel where the event is to take place. With the nondominant hand on the scruff, use the other hand to immediately wrap a full side of the blanket around the body and beyond the cat’s body up to its head. Now lean weight on the squirming crying bundle while simultaneously wrapping the other end of the blanket over the cat in a similar but opposite manner.
The Role of the 2nd Human
With the cat firmly swaddled and held, another person approaches with the proper nail implement. Don’t even imagine using the automated grinding pet paw clippers advertised over the Internet and elsewhere. Cats are not dogs. Assist 1 front paw out of the bundle. The cat is now plaintively crying but freedom is near.
Pressing gently on the paw extends the claws if they are not already in full view. Clip the tips only in order to avoid the blood supply close to the body of the paw. No blood should flow from the cat or the human although the latter occasionally bleeds. Be sure and get the eye claws.
The Back Paws
When the front paws are completed, rewrap the cat as it continues to push from its cocoon. Firmly grab one back paw only and repeat the process. Although the cat may be kicking, it is important only 1 leg is out. This prevents the kick-off from the human body to escape for hours. Swaddle the finished leg and before allowing release of the last leg and clip those nails.
Respect the Cat’s Dignity
Once the procedure is accomplished the cat does not want kisses or treats but to get as far away as possible. Stand back from the animal and release it.
At some point it may gingerly lick and examine its newly shorn claws. Don’t allow this to be guilt trip. The cat is incapable of feeling guilt for human bloodshed. Learn from the pet. No eye contact. Done correctly, this is a safe, necessary, procedure to prevent the nails from growing inward (lengthening and curving into the paw pads) which causes pain and potential infection and immobility.
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