Clipping Nails
There are at least three different types of claw trimmers available, but I have found that I like scissor style of claw clipper the best. They have rubberized non-slip grips and the blades remain sharp for a a long time. This allows you to be precise in cutting, whether you are trimming a 14lb stud cat with tiger-like daggers or a 6 week old baby with fine little needles.
We start trimming kittens nails around 5-6 weeks of age and your kitten will continue to accept this part of grooming if kept up on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Even with this early training, some cats will become fussy about being restrained and the nail trims are best done in multiple short sessions.
Here is basically the way we trim your kittens claws and the way we suggest that you continue to maintain them over the cats lifetime.
1. Choose a time to trim claws when your cat is relaxed, just prior to or just waking up from a nap is ideal.
2. I prefer to stand the cat on a solid surface (counter or table) and trim the nails while the cat is standing and faciung away from me. I stand and tuck the cat (still standing) under my left elbow and hold the paw with my left hand. Others find that sitting and clipping nails with the cat on their lap works best for them. Some folks find it easiest to have a partner hold the cat facing them while they use both hands for trimming. Regardless, make sure that you have adequate light to be able to visualize where the clear nail tip ends and the pink blood vessels (the 'quick') begin inside the claw.
3. Your Birmans claws will be in the retracted position and require that you hold the paw and gently press down on the toe to extend the claw.
I'm right handed and generally hold the paw and extend the claw with my lefthand. My right hand has the clippers in it.
4. Visualize the pink vein (the 'quick') that is inside the claw and position the clippers only on the clear section away from this. Gently clip the clear tip end of the claw off. Repeat, taking breaks as necessary. A reward of a treat at the end of the session will help them remember that this is 'good' and not so scary.
5. Many veterinary clinics offer free nail clipping to their clients. If, after trying several times, you find that claw clipping is too challenging this is often an option.
