While trimming your cat or kitten’s claws may not be the most enjoyable activity as a cat owner, it is a necessary one. We know how difficult it can be, which is why we recommend to begin the trimming process when your cat is a kitten. The earlier you introduce your cat to claw trimming, the easier it will be to accomplish the task.
With the help of our friends at the ASPCA, below are some important and helpful tips to be mindful of when trimming your Bengal cat’s claws.
1. Make sure your kitten or cat is relaxed or even a little tired. Sit in a comfortable chair where you will not be disturbed by other animals.
2. Before attempting to clip the claws, make “friends” with the paw. Take your one paw between your fingers and massage for a count of three. If you cat pulls away, don’t squeeze or pinch the paw, but keep in gentle contact. Once the cat is still, give the pad of the paw some pressure, so the nail extends out. Release the paw immediately and give the cat a treat.
3. Make sure your cat is not startled by the sound of clippers before you trim her nails. Try cutting a piece of uncooked spaghetti while holding the cat’s paws and gauge her reaction.
4. When you do trim the cat’s nails, do not cut the quick, the pink part of the nail. This is where the nerves and blood vessels are located. Only trim the white part of the nail. If the quick is cut, bleeding can be stopped with a styptic powder or stick.
5. To begin the trimming process, have your cat in your lap, facing outward. Massage one toe and press the pad until the nail extends, and trim only the sharp tip of the nail. Give her a treat and remember to take note of where the quick begins. If the cat didn’t notice, trim another nail. Don’t trim more than two claws in one sitting, until the cat is comfortable with it.
6. Trim your cat’s claws about every 10 to 14 days.
While these are some great tips of what to do when trimming your Bengal kitten or cat’s claws, there are a few things to avoid, for the safety and wellbeing of your cat. Do not raise your voice or punish your cat if she resists; don’t attempt to trim when your cat is upset or agitated; don’t rush the claw trimming; and lastly, don’t trim all of the claws at once.
