Senior Cat Comfort & Care

Long nails can get caught in carpet or make hard surfaces more slippery. They can change the way your cat stands on their paws, leading to physical discomfort. Senior nails may get thicker and can grow into the paw pads. You’ll want to keep an eye on nails and trim as needed. This includes all the toes and the dewclaw.

Tips #18 and #19 can help your senior get comfortable with nail trimming if they aren’t already. Here are some other tips:

Use clippers made for cats. The scissor style works well and can be easier than those requiring you to insert the nail into the clipper.

You don’t have to do all 20 toes (or more for polydactyl kitties) at once. Leave the clippers out and do a nail here and there when your cat is relaxed.

Keep it positive! Use lots of treats and verbal praise to show your cat this is a good thing.

Be careful not to clip too deep. The dark part of the nail (the quick) is filled with blood and can be painful if cut. Just take the tip off to start. Make multiple passes if needed.

If the nail does bleed, dab cornstarch on the end to stop the bleeding. Watch closely for signs of infection over the next few days.

Continue to provide scratch pads, both horizontal and vertical options.