Last Updated: 06/05/2025
Wondering how to trim your cat or dogs nails? Check out our guide to nail trimming and how you can make it easier for your pet.
Author: Dr Teagan Lever BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 16 minutes - medium read
As a veterinarian I am often asked by pet owners how to trim their furry friend's nails. Trimming nails can be daunting for both you and your pet and if not done carefully it can result in pain and sometimes bleeding too. So here are some great tips for making the experience as pleasant as possible for both you and your pet!
The first step to streamlining the nail trimming process is to choose a pair of clippers that suits you and your pet. For small dogs and cats I would recommend using a small pair of clippers that are suitable for little paws. For medium and large dogs, use a more hefty pair of clippers that are strong enough to cleanly cut through thicker nails.
Some owners may prefer to use a guillotine style nail clipper. Guillotine style clippers require the dog's nail to be placed in the opening so they are easier to use on calm dogs and are better suited for small to medium-sized dogs. A nail grinder is another alternative. They use a spinning abrasive pad to wear down the nail and smooth out rough edges. They are a great option for dark nails or thick nails that are difficult to cut.
Often dogs and cats dislike being restrained to have their nails trimmed, especially if they have had a bad experience with nail trimming in the past. It is a good idea to get them used to being held and having their feet handled from a young age. The best time to try is when your pet is relaxed, perhaps when they are on your lap or having a cuddle. Make sure that they get plenty of rewards and encouragement when they let you do this!
Treats make a great reward for improving the nail trimming experience. You can also use them to keep your pet distracted while you are clipping. Why not try peanut butter or a paste treat on a lick mat to keep your pet distracted?
It is really useful to have a second person to help you to do this part. Ask your helper to gently hold the pet around the shoulders in the sitting or standing position. Gently pick up the foot and carefully cut the nail. Be sure to trim only the very tip of the nail to avoid hitting the nail bed or 'quick'. Cutting the nail bed can be very painful and result in bleeding so I recommend that you take a little off at a time to avoid this. If your pet has white nails you are in luck! You should be able to see the pink of the nail bed making it easier to avoid.
With pets that really dislike having their nails clipped, try doing it gradually, for example a foot or even a nail at a time. Reward your pet for their good behaviour and with time and patience you should be able to build up to doing more nails per session.
Don't worry if you accidentally cut the nail too short, even veterinarians, nurses and groomers do this from time to time. Often the nail can seem to bleed a lot! Don't worry too much though, just like with any other small cut, your pet's blood will clot at the wound site and bleeding will stop with time. It can help to apply a tissue and some pressure or a styptic powder could be a great tool to have on hand to quickly stop bleeding. If your pet will tolerate it, applying a small bandage for an hour or so can help to save your carpet!
Although sometimes it is necessary to trim the nails of our feline friends, I recommend that you do not trim the nails of cats that venture outdoors. The reason for this is that outdoor cats rely on their nails to climb up trees and fences when escaping from hazards (like unfriendly dogs!). Cats will generally use scratching posts or trees to keep their nails in check, if you notice that your cat's nails are excessively long it could be a sign of arthritis or other problems that are preventing them from being able to do this themselves.
Trimming your pet's nails can seem like an ordeal for everyone involved, but if you take the time to help your pet get used to having it done it can become a great opportunity to build a stronger relationship with your pet.
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