Bringing a sharp or potentially harmful gadget close to any animal is sure to make it run for the woods. Sometimes, you can’t even say the word "v-e-t" out loud before your cat scurries away to a safe place. But if you need to clip your cat's nails and want clippers that are simple to use, the JW Pet Gripsoft Deluxe Cat Nail Trimmer is an excellent choice.
You should trim your cat’s nails from when they are young, to get them used to the actions and the feeling. If it’s something new that you are trying with an adult cat, you might end up with more scratches and hisses than clippings.
The most important aspect is to show your cat that it isn't in any danger and that what you're doing won’t hurt — unless you do it wrong. Positive reinforcement can also work wonders, offering a treat for each nail successfully clipped.
To many people, any clippers are simply clippers. But there are three kinds of clippers for cat claws, and you might have to go through each to find the type that works for you and your cat.
Consider your cat’s personality, and work on a technique as stress-free as possible for both involved. However, a few things will make the experience manageable and (almost) pleasant.
The mere thought of trimming your own nails and the clipper jolting sideways is nightmare-inducing. Imagine, then, how your cat will experience it. For that reason, good-quality cat clippers have a handle with anti-slip grips. These can either be non-slip plastic or ridges in the handle to prevent slippage.
It will cause more trauma to your relationship with your cat than actual harm, but blunt blades on clippers are never good. Instead of cutting through the hard nail cleanly, blunt blades essentially crush through the nail with force. Good-quality cat clippers have blades that can either be sharpened, replaced or made from a material that remains sharp even after many clips.
They're relatively inexpensive, with a simple scissor-type retailing for $5-$10. Larger clippers suitable for both cats and dogs sell for $10-$15, while pet nail grinders cost $20-$30.
A. There is heavy debate over whether you should trim a cat’s nails, but when it becomes an obvious problem, you have to step in. It is more an issue with indoor cats who don’t have the natural environment to shed old claws so that healthier ones can grow. However, trimming the nails can speed up the shedding process, letting stronger nails come through.
A. While it varies depending on the cat’s age and activity, you should aim to trim every three to four weeks. Keep an eye on the nail growth and trim when necessary, instead of sticking to a rigid schedule.
JW Pet Gripsoft Deluxe Cat Nail Trimmer
What you need to know: These guillotine-type clippers are easy to use and made from sturdy materials.
What you’ll love: The spring for the blade is hidden in the top handle, so there is no worry about catching loose hair or fibers. The blade is made of stainless steel and cuts through nails quickly and easily.
What you should consider: While the handles are plastic, they don’t have an anti-slip coating or textured grip.
Pet Republique Cat Nail Clipper
What you need to know: Made of stainless steel with an easy-to-use scissor action, these clippers trim nails effortlessly.
What you’ll love: The plastic handles are textured on the inside for improved grip and the blade stays sharp for a long time.
What you should consider: The finger holes in the handles are relatively small, so people with larger hands might struggle.
Resco Original Cat Nail Clippers
What you need to know: These heavy-duty cat nail clippers are made of solid steel and chrome plating.
What you’ll love: The guillotine-type clippers are easy to handle and the cutting action is smooth. The blade is replaceable when it becomes blunt.
What you should consider: You must grip the handles tightly in your palm, as there are no textured ridges or anti-slip covers.
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Charlie Fripp writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
