This entry was posted in no categories.

Pads, Paws, and Claws

Dog toenail trimming

Dog toenail trimming

Dogs and cats need regular manicures, and it is easier to take care of with pets than it is for people. The first step is to check their paws every week and trim and treat as needed.

Did you know that Cats scratch on things to pull off the claws’ dead outer layers and keep the tips sharp? Regular nail-trimming dull the claws and reduces the potential for damage to people and furniture. One of the simplest tools to trim cat nails is a human nail clippers or scissors-type pet trimmers. Take a look at your cats’ claws, and you’ll see they are curved. This curve can actually cause the nail to grow in a circle and back into your cat’s paw pad which would be really painful and can cause an abscess. By checking kitty feet weekly, you’ll be ahead of the care curve.

For dogs, nail trimming is very important too. Lots of people think that dogs naturally wear their claws down, so there’s nothing to worry about. This just isn’t true. Yes, even dogs that walk or hike regularly still need to have their toes attended to. Regular foot care provides many benefits

  • Keeping toenails trimmed can protect skin and furniture just like it does with cats.
  • Long nails are more likely split or break, which can lead to infection.
  • There are many joints in the paws, and those long nails puts lots of stress on them, which can cause arthritis.
  • Long nails may cause the dog’s toes to splay, creating an abnormal and uncomfortable gait and adding stress to the foot.

Toenail clipping isn’t too difficult and you are probably able to do the clipping yourself. You’ll need a toenail clipper and good instructions on how to clip without hurting your pet. We’ve provided images to help you, or you may talk to you veterinarian’s staff or local dog groomer and they should be able to show you how to do this. If you’re not comfortable with the clipping procedure, let a professional take care of this important grooming need at least every 4 weeks.

Thanks for stopping past!

You must be logged in to post comments.