Nail Clipping

[mechi]

Desensitizing her to a muzzle is like desensitizing her to the nail trimming. When she had her nails trimmed at the vet's, the vet had a type of cat muzzle that slipped on very easily and was secured with just one pull. Would anyone know what these types of muzzles are called and where I can get one?

[StarfishSaving]

Originally Posted by mechi

Desensitizing her to a muzzle is like desensitizing her to the nail trimming.

Yeah, but desensitizing to a muzzle means that desensitizing to nail clipping will be safer. Without the muzzle, she can still bite you.

I'm not sure which kind of muzzle that would be but many muzzles (including those for cats) are fitted with velcro which would be quick and easy to fit. It will still take some desensitization, because many dogs freak out with a muzzle on and the key is to reduce stress during the process, but I find velcro easier and quicker to apply than a buckle.

[Karebear]

Have you tried touching her paws while you are playing to get her used to the feel of someone touching her pads?

[mechi]

Oh yes, she is used to having her paws touched. I can fiddle around with her toes, even pretend I'm cutting her nails with my fingers. It is the actual cutting with the clippers that is the problem.

[Karebear]

Have you tried using the pedipaw?

[mechi]

Yes, we actually bought a pedipaw a couple of weeks ago. I was surprised at how big it is, almost as big as my chihuahua. I tried it out on myself, there's know way she would hold still for it, as it takes a few seconds for the nail to wear down. Clippers are much faster. Yesterday was a good day, she held still right up to the moment I clipped her nail, then she yelped. No I didn't cut too close, she's just a big baby. I only cut one nail, I wanted it to end on a good note, maybe she will figure out the less she struggles the sooner it will be done.

[Karebear]

Yea it is pretty big maybe she will come around to the idea you could also try when you cut that nail to praise her for letting you do it maybe give her a treat.

[mechi]

Oh yeah she gets praise. It's getting better, maybe someday I'll be able to take off the gloves, LOL.