Claw trimming

Home consultation claw trimming includes dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and birds.

Regular maintenance of your pet's nails isn't only about how they look; it's crucial for their health and overall wellbeing.

Regular claw care will:

•  prevent pain, injury and discomfort when they walk, run and play.
•  maintain correct posture and alignment. Long claws can affect the anatomy of toes, leading to joint problems, arthritis and other musculoskeletal issues in the long term.
• will promote good hygiene, reducing the risk of claws harbouring dirt, bacteria, fungi and other parasites.

How often should claw care be carried out?

• 6-8 weeks for dogs walked on concrete/pavements, wearing their claws down naturally.
• From every 2 weeks for less active dogs or dogs walked mostly on soft ground.
• 1-2 weeks for puppies. Puppies' claws grow faster than adult dogs; claws and are very sharp. The frequency is also good to set your puppy up for claw trimming success with plenty of positive reinforcement.

Signs of overgrown claws

• Clicking sound when walking on hard surfaces.
• Noticeable, visible claw curvature.
• Catching claws on soft surfaces such as sofa, carpets, blankets and bedding.
• Visible claw extension past the claw 'quick' on white claws.

Indoor and elderly cats

Tend not to wear their claws down on trees and fences, although in most cases scratching posts are accessible to them. Some cats either choose not to use them or don't use them enough to maintain a good claw length.

If the claws aren't trimmed regularly they keep growing to the point where they are uncomfortable for the cat and may even grow into the pad, get continually get caught on things or even torn  out.

Signs of overgrown claws

• Clicking on hard surfaces when walking around.
• Cats claws retract naturally, so if you can see them when your cat is relaxing or sleeping or just walking around, they are too long.
• Lameness, discomfort or bleeding. 
• The long claws will eventually grow into the cats pads causing pain, bleeding, inflammation or infection.

How often should claw care be carried out?

This really does depend on the cats level of activity. Outdoor cats claws usually never need trimming, however if you notice any of the signs listed it would be advised to trim the excess claw off for comfort.

Indoor and elderly cats should have claw care from every 6 weeks.

Rabbits and Guinea pigs should ideally have their claws trimmed every 1-2 months.

Over grown claws curl around affecting the anatomy of the toes and feet. Claws can eventually grow into the skin causing mobility issues and discomfort.