Does it hurt cats to clip their nails? I have a lovely cat that doesn't scratch enough to shed...

my cat is such a punk about scratching posts. i want to try getting used ones and see if it encourages him to use them, bc he only uses one that another cat used to use. the rest are untouched

anyway, cats are sensitive about their claws/whiskers. but cutting their nails shouldn't harm them. if you can't see the quick just cut off the tip of the nail- doinf that routinely should recede the quick

JimboSaturn · 56-60, M

I had a dog that used to scream even before I even cut his nails lol. Like others said, if you don't cut the quick it won't hurt but sometimes it freaks them out anyway.

WellFrog · 56-60, M

Taking just the tip, right at the point where the nail begins to taper into a fine point, is generally going to be the safest approach.

The nails of cats and dogs have a similar structure in general (and vast differences as well, please don't misread this, folks) which has a blood vessel and a nerve ending which are behind the tip and easier to visualize in lighter colored nails. Snip just the tip and you should do well every time.

rayoflight · 46-50, M

I'm glad that you're so thoughtful and protective of your pets. That's really nice of you 🤗

DunningKruger · 61-69, M

You can cut the quick of the nail if you cut them too short, which will hurt them. This is apparently a problem especially if they have black nails, for some reason.

I've never heard of just clipping the nails hurting them, though.

bijouxbroussard · F

Mine never minded. A friend with cats taught me how; you have to be careful not to cut the quick (and look very carefully to see where it is on their claws).

ItsMeMorgue · 46-50, F

It doesn't hurt them unless you cut to the quick, and then you'll know because they're bleeding. Your cat might not like it emotionally, but he'll get over it. If you're having them done by a professional, that's the best thing you can do for your little fluffy friend.

Kiesel · 56-60, M

I’m scared to death to do it so I take her to the Vet tech about once a month

ViciDraco · 41-45, M

It's going to be uncomfortable having his paw out and the tips clipped in the moment - basically forcing his hand out into a weird position, but so long as it's just the tip it shouldn't cause any lasting discomfort.

pride49 · 31-35, M

Idk but my grandmothers cat will get in her lap and let her trim his nails with nail clippers.

Northwest · M

You need a good vet.

Harmonium1923 · 56-60, M

It’s a good idea actually. But just cut the sharp tips and be sure not to cut the pinkish part.

LaNinaRosa · F

Use nail clippers with a torch and look for the claw NEVER the pink part called the quick’