learn how to clip my cats' claws

I’ve also learned that they don’t particularly like having it done, but we’re getting there bit by bit.

I gave this a go last night. I started with Princess, as she was curled up peacefully in my lap, and used an ordinary nail-clippers. I only cut off a millimeter or so, just enough to remove the sharp tip – the quick wasn’t very clear, maybe because they’re still small, so I was afraid to cut any more in case I hurt her. For the past few days I’ve been pressing the cats’ claws out whenever I’m petting them, to get them used to having their paws handled, so she barely even moved until I actually clipped the claw. She was startled then, but not distressed, so after a moment I tried another one. She didn’t object to me lifting her paw, but as soon as I tried to expose a claw she gently but firmly removed her paw from my hand, so after a couple of attempts I let her be, with lots of praise and affection for being so good.

Later I repeated the entire process with Muffin, with exactly the same results – he let me do the first one no problem, but then refused to have any more done. When I tried it with Ludo, who had been beside me the whole time, he wasn’t having any of it; maybe he’d seen me doing the others and put two and two together, or maybe it’s just that he’s naturally the jumpiest of the three. I’d missed a perfect opportunity earlier when he was asleep in my lap, but I’ll be ready next time.

I’ll try again this evening. Even if I only get one or two done each day, eventually they’ll all be done.

I love having my kitties in my lap. I hate having legs covered in scratches and clothes covered in snags. Clearly, something must be done.

I meant to ask the vet about it last time I was there, but I completely forgot. Anyone out there know anything about it?