I trim all of my cat’s nails about once a month. Since I have 8 indoor cats, that means I trim 188 nails on kitty mani-pedi day!

I think these are the best style of nail trimmers for cats (and dogs)

I start by paying attention to when the cat is mellow and chill, then I sit with him or her, petting and talking in a low tone (I flatter them a lot, too…it can’t hurt). Most of my cats just sit on my lap while I do their nails. A few of my squirmy babies get (gently) sat on, though.

I’m right handed, so with my left hand I take one of their paws and gently push under the pad with my thumb and on top of the nail where it meets skin with my index finger (or or reverse thumb and index, depending on what seems like the best position). When the nail is extended I trim it with the nail clippers in my right hand within the white part of the nail.

Do not cut into the pink part of the nail, that is the quick of the cat’s nail. If you cut it, it will bleed like crazy and be terribly painful for your cat. Not to mention, cutting into your kitty’s quick will make your pet very distrustful of you when you touch it’s feet.

Use real pet nail trimmers from the pet store. Nail clippers made for people aren’t the right shape for your pet’s nails, so don’t even try to do the job with the wrong tool. (It will end in tragedy for all!!)

When we’re done, I always give out a hefty round of kitty treats. Celebration for a job well done!