nail trimming question

[shade]

recently it's been very uncomfortable to hold my rats on my shoulder because they leave lovely little red scratches all up and down my neck. their nails are really sharp and they're starting to hurt really bad. I want to clip them but I'm afraid it might hurt them if I do. is there a technique or a certain way to trim their nails without causing a problem?

 

[jorats]

I've trimmed nails several times. I use a human nail clipper and cut just the very tip. If you cut too much, you'll get the quick.

 

[twitch]

even if you do get too far and it bleeds, don't panic. the finger is a long way from the heart. just apply pressure and it will stop in a minute or two. some people have had success in getting nails done when their rat is occupied with a treat they have to lick up like yogurt, or a yoggie to hold with their front feet when getting the back feet.

personally i just leave something in their cage to wear down their claws on their own, a rough rock or a lava perch placed strategically can wear down those nails with wonderful results.

 

[SQ]

See trimming toenails, about half way down the page.

http://ratfanclub.org/skin.html