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cutting nails

  • Thread starter Thread starter kaw
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kaw

hi, as some of you know i have recently taken in 2 female guinea pigs, and i noticed that their nails are really quite long, especially their back ones.
is it advisable to try and cut them yourself, or would it be better for a vet to do it?
 
I would do them yourself and i do. Its really easy if your worried only cut a little bit at first. I use a normal human nail clippers and find it works well for me.
All you have to do is look to see where the pink bit is which is the quick cut just below this if you cut it the nail will bleed but it will stop, it is painful for the piggy like us cutting our quick. After doing it once the next time is easy. The back ones might be the best to try first it your worried.
Also have a look at this thread.
http://www.theguineapigforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=61
 
I've always cut them myself but then I cut the cat's nails and the dogs nails to and have for years.

But if you aren't used to it but are comfortable with the idea of doing it yourself then get your vet to show you and then maintain them yourself.
 
Cut the nails yourself, it may take a while the first time!
Practise holding the pig first before you start clipping, hold the pig close to a soft surface in case it decides to escape. Some pigs squeal for all they are worth, warn the neighbours first!
 
alcesterpigs said:
Cut the nails yourself, it may take a while the first time!
Practise holding the pig first before you start clipping, hold the pig close to a soft surface in case it decides to escape. Some pigs squeal for all they are worth, warn the neighbours first!
Click to expand...

Just like my Gizmo, he is just a baby! :(|)
 
Hi

I'm going to try & cut my boys nails, I trim my birds nails so same method.

Also I was told my a bird breeder I know, that if they do bleed, putting flour on the nail will help to stop it.

Not sure if it works as havent tried myself but as its natural, it cant hurt & thought Id share in case it helps anyone

Karen x
 
I took mine to the vet, well I asked the vet to cut them whilst we were there for a check up, because I've never done it before, so that I could see how it is done. Going to be brave next time :(|)
 
Flour, styptic pencils etc, old fashioned remedies, which have no beneficial effect.
Mother Nature got there first with the clotting mechanism!
 
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