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If you’ve ever heard your dog’s nails click-clacking on the kitchen floor or noticed your cat snagging their claws on the couch, you might have thought, “I should probably trim their nails sometime soon.” But here’s the thing, nail trims for pets aren’t just about keeping your furniture scratch-free or your floors quiet.

Healthy nails are a critical part of a cat or dog’s overall health. Long nails can cause pain, affect their posture and gait, and even lead to serious joint and mobility issues if not taken care of, over time.

As a veterinary dermatology clinic, we see firsthand how damaged nails can create a ripple effect of health problems, some of which could be avoided with routine nail trims. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly why regular nail trims matter, how often to do them, and how to make the process easier for both you and your pet.

Why Pet’s Nail Lengths Matters More Than You Think

Your pet’s nails grow continuously, just like yours. The difference? Most pets aren’t wearing theirs down naturally. In the wild, animals walk long distances over rough terrain, which naturally keeps claws at a healthy length.

Our pets, on the other hand, spend a lot of time indoors or walking on softer surfaces like grass — which means their nails can get too long, too quickly.

Here’s what happens when nails grow too long:

• Pain and Discomfort: Overgrown nails push back into the foot pad, causing pain with every step.

• Altered Posture and Gait: Pets may shift their weight to avoid pressure, which can cause strain on muscles and joints.

• Injury Risk: Long nails can catch on carpets or crack, leading to bleeding or infection.

Health Risks of Overgrown Nails

1. Posture and Joint Issues

When nails hit the ground before the paw does, it forces your pet to change their posture to relieve pressure. Over time, this can lead to arthritis, hip problems, and spinal issues — especially in senior pets.

2. Painful Splits and Breaks

A broken nail isn’t just painful — it’s a gateway for infection. A nail that breaks below the quick (the blood vessel inside the nail) often requires veterinary treatment.

3. Curled or Ingrown Nails

We’ve treated pets whose nails grew so long they pierced their paw pads. Not only is this incredibly painful, but it can also lead to abscesses and more severe infections.

4. Behavioral Changes

Pets in pain may become irritable, less active, or reluctant to be handled. If your dog suddenly avoids walks or your cat stops jumping up to favorite spots, nail length might be the silent culprit.

How Often Should You Trim Your Pet’s Nails?

There’s isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, but here is a general guideline:

• Dogs: On average, dogs need a trim every 3-4 weeks (for most breeds),  but active dogs who spend a lot of time on hard surfaces may need less frequent trims.

• Cats: Indoor cats need a nail trim around every 2–4 weeks; outdoor cats could need them less often.

• Small Pets: Rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds need regular trims to prevent overgrowth

Signs Your Pet’s Nails Are Due for a Trim

• You hear clicking on hard floors.

• Their nails are visible past the paw pad when standing.

• Your pet shows signs of discomfort or even resists walking.

• You notice snagging on fabrics or scratching when you pick them up.

If you’re unsure, ask your veterinarian or groomer to show you the correct length.

How to Trim Safely at Home

If you’re confident trimming nails at home, follow these steps:

1. Get your pet comfortable – Handle their paws regularly so nail trims aren’t stressful.

2. Use good lighting – This will help you spot the quick, especially on light-colored nails.

3. Trim gradually – Take off small amounts at a time to avoid hitting the quick.

4. Reward often – Use treats and praise after each nail or paw to build positive associations.

If you want a clear demonstration, our step-by-step nail trimming video is a great resource to walk you through the process.

For pets with black or dark nails where the quick isn’t visible, trim until you see a light oval appear in the center of the nail.

What If My Pet Hates Nail Trims?

Some pets simply won’t tolerate nail trims at home and that’s okay. Professional groomers and veterinary staff are trained to handle the most nervous pets safely.

On our website Haarstad Veterinary Dermatology, we offer a helpful tutorial video to assist you in trimming your dog’s nails.

Q: Is it bad if I never trim my dog’s nails?
A: Yes. Untrimmed nails can cause pain, injury, and long-term joint issues for dogs.

Q: How do I know if I cut the quick?
A: The quick contains blood vessels. If you cut it, you’ll see bleeding. Apply styptic powder and gentle pressure. See a vet if it doesn’t stop quickly.

Q: Are cat nail caps a good alternative to nail trims?
A: Nail caps can prevent scratching damage but don’t replace the need for trimming. Nails still grow underneath.

Q: Can long nails cause my pet to limp?
A: Yes. Overgrown nails can change your pet’s gait and cause discomfort when walking.

The Bottom Line

Regular nail trims aren’t just for cosmetic reasons,  they’re an important part of your pet’s preventive health care. Keeping nails at a healthy length supports their comfort, mobility, and overall joint health.

If trimming your pet’s nails feels intimidating, don’t put it off, ask your vet clinic or groomer for help. Your pet will thank you with every comfortable step they take.