Cat claw clippers

[Fordian]

Can anyone recommend a type or brand of cat claw clippers?

We've been using human curved ones, but cat concerned is big, with big furry paws, and not very compliant. And indoor only, thus grows long claws that attach him to soft furnishings 😳

Clipping him is a 3 man job, DH to hold him on his back like a baby (he's not a lap cat, he tolerates it); second person to stabilise the relevant wrist or ankle, me to clip. The curved edged clippers aren't working for us because the ends of the curve are buried in fur, however much I try to do the gentle toe squeeze to extend the claw to cut it safely, so I accidentally nipped him 😢.

How do you do it? Using what, exactly?

We have this type, which has the safety bit, so you can’t push too much of the claw through and cut down to the quick and cause damage or infection.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gonicc-Dog-Nail-Clippers-Trimmer/dp/B075N83693/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=cat+nail+clippers+with+safety+guard&qid=1680290843&sr=8-5

Why do you do it? I've never seen it as part of cat ownership.

Direct them to scratching posts and stop clipping.

Er, we're meant to clip their claws?!

Cats claws should not be clipped

We have two outdoor cats - I would never need to do their claws but our inside cat who refuses to use a scratching post has the longest claws that just get stuck in her blanket. Clipping them is a nightmare but we've got the Amazon safety ones and they do the job.

Claw clipping? I can’t see my lad tolerating that. Can’t you just get him a decent scratching post?

We have the specific dog/cat nail clippers. Still takes 2 of us to do the job. We only have to do it in winter when she doesn't go out as much as she was getting stuck on the carpet, blankets, sofas etc....... she was walking and getting stuck like it was velcro! She is very much a fair weather cat and will only go out when it's dry.

Indoor only cats often need the very tips trimming.

You need to learn the blanket wrap method.

Get them a proper piece of wood to claw

I use these from pets at home. Cheddar likes to make biscuits on my face, and she has claws like needles. If they are not clipped. She's very about it!

I use human nail clippers to nip the pointy ends off. I know that they’re not advised because they can cause the nail to splinter but we don’t have any problems.

As others have said, indoor cats often do need claws clipping. A scratching post isn't going to do the job, outdoor cats wear down their claws by repetitive use on harder surfaces than are available indoors. Older cats also seem to need claw clipping sometimes even if they go out IME.

I would avoid holding a cat on its back to clip its claws, it is likely to feel vulnerable and helpless and resist the process. The less of a 'big deal' it is for the cat, the easier it will be for you.

You need to gently squeeze the paw pads between your finger and thumb and that will 'release' the claws, so you can easily see what you're doing. If in doubt, ask a vet nurse to demonstrate.

When we clip claws, we get the cat to sit on the sofa next to one of us, that person holds her firmly but gently and allows her to have three feet on the surface so she feels secure. Then the other person holds one paw, gently presses the pad so the claws are easily visible, and clips the claws. I find human clippers work okay but the alternative ones linked to may work better for you.

I have 2 indoor maine coons, one of which has extra toes, so nail clipping is a must. They have a large cat tree and posts that they use, but need regular nail trimming. I use this type, which was recommended by the breeder.

Pet Nail Clippers for Small Animals - Best Cat Nail Clippers & Claw Trimmer for Tiny Dog Rabbit Bird amzn.eu/d/cQtrSfk

I have them sit on my knee in a human like position and I extend the claws out, while my husband does the actual clipping. You could try a blanket wrapped around them if you are struggling.

Thanks everyone. Yes, our indoor cat definitely needs his claws clipping even though he's an enthusiastic user of a post.

When they get too long, he hurts himself trying to disentangle himself from blankets etc.