The Importance of Nail Care for Pets: Debunking Common Excuses

Most pets, from dogs and cats to birds and reptiles, have nails, claws, or talons made of keratin. These continue to grow throughout their lives and must be maintained to prevent issues like ingrown nails or structural damage to the paws. While wild animals naturally wear down their nails through various activities, pets often need human assistance to keep their nails in check. Here are some common excuses pet owners give for not trimming their pets' nails and why these excuses shouldn't stand in the way of proper pet care.

Common Excuses and Responses

1. "I've never had to do it before; their nails used to wear down naturally."

When pets are young and active, their nails might naturally wear down. However, as they age or if they spend more time on softer surfaces, their nails won't wear down as much. This can lead to painful ingrown nails or splaying, causing significant discomfort. Starting nail trimming early can prevent stress for both the pet and the owner later on.

2. "They don't like it when I touch their feet, so I avoid it."

If your pet is averse to having their feet touched, it's crucial to start desensitising them to this process. Being able to inspect and care for your pet's feet is essential for their overall health. If your pet steps on something sharp or gets a foreign object stuck in their paw, you need to be able to address it without causing further stress or injury. Gradually getting them used to having their feet handled can prevent aggression and make veterinary visits less stressful.

3. "I'm scared of hurting them."

Trimming nails shouldn't be painful for your pet. It's essential to understand the structure of their nails, particularly the 'quick,' which is the blood supply running through the nail. Cutting into the quick can be painful, so take your time and trim carefully. For pets with dark nails where the quick is hard to see, filing the nails down gradually can help. Practice and patience are key, and remember that your pet will mirror your stress levels.

4. "I didn't know I needed to do this."

Nail trimming is crucial for all pets. Incorporate natural behaviours that help maintain nail length, such as pedicure poles and scratching posts for birds and cats, or rough rocks and concrete surfaces for reptiles and dogs. Regular maintenance can prevent painful issues and promote overall health.

5. "Why should I learn when you can do it?"

Learning to trim your pet's nails yourself has numerous benefits. It reduces veterinary costs, minimises stress for your pet, strengthens your bond, and ensures you can care for their needs throughout their life. Regular home care can significantly improve your pet's quality of life.

6. "My pet bites, and I don't want to get bitten."

If your pet reacts aggressively, it's your responsibility to work through this behaviour. Pets learn from experience, and if biting stops the process, they'll continue to use it as a defence. Training your pet to tolerate nail trimming is crucial for their well-being. Relying on veterinary staff to handle an aggressive pet is unfair and can lead to unnecessary stress and sedation for a procedure that should be simple and painless.

7. "They're too old to learn something new."

Pets are never too old to learn. With the right techniques, any animal can learn new behaviours, regardless of age. Continuous training helps maintain their cognitive abilities and adapt to age-related changes. Many older pets can successfully learn to tolerate nail trims, improving their quality of life.

Proper nail care is an essential aspect of pet ownership that should not be neglected. Overcoming common excuses and taking the time to train and desensitise your pet to nail trimming can prevent pain, improve their health, and strengthen your bond. At Riverness, we're here to help you and your pet succeed in all aspects of care and management, ensuring the best quality of life for your furry, feathered, or scaly friend.