Nail Clipping

at Timbertown Veterinary Hospital

(02) 6585 3215
Timbertown Vet - Nail Clipping

Nail Clipping

Regular nail inspection (all 4 nails on each paw, and the dew claws if they are present), with clipping or trimming when required, should be part of the routine care of your pet. The requirement for nail trimming can vary depending on breed, age, level of exercise and the environment in which your pet is kept.

If a pet’s nails are allowed to grow too long, they can split, break or bleed, causing soreness or infection in your pet’s paws and digits. Long nails can get caught and tear, or grow so long that they can curl backwards and penetrate into the pad. If left for too long, the “quick”, or nerve and blood supply to the nail, can grow out with the nail, making it nearly impossible to cut properly. It is very important not to cut the quick of a nail as this is rich in nerve endings and very painful for the pet, and will cause bleeding. If you do accidentally cut into the quick, pressing the nail into a bar of soap can effectively stop the bleeding.

For pets with long quicks, in puppies and kittens with short nails, or those with black nails which hide the quick, using a nail file or grinding device can be a safer way to remove the sharp tips.

We have a variety of nail clippers that suit different pets – from the very small to the very tall. Make an appointment today to have your pet’s nails checked. We can also teach you how to do it if you would prefer to cut them yourself.

Timbertown Vet - Nail Clipping

Many pets, especially those that have had some difficult nail trims in the past, are very nervous about having their claws cut, and benefit from some pre appointment sedation, which makes it much easier on the pet, the owner and vet staff. As the sedation is a prescription medication, we do need to have the pet under our care to prescribe and dispense prior to the appointment.

To book your pet in for nail clipping, contact the team to make an appointment.