|
How to Trim your Rabbit's Nails Unless your rabbit goes for a regular walk on a hard surface or lives outdoors on hard ground, you will need to trim its nails. Rabbits nails are constantly growing, health problems can develop if never checked. Your rabbit will also be easier to handle if sharp nails do not get in the way. Getting started Firstly buy a good quality small nail clipper. We recommend Trixie Pro Care for small animals, cats and dogs. Don't make nail cutting a battle of wits and claws, turn it into a rewarding experience for you and your rabbit. To do this you must first get your rabbit used to being held and having it's nails touched. Do this over a period of a couple of weeks and reward your rabbit with a tasty treat each time. There is no easy position and some rabbits do not like being restrained (especially if not handled often). Do not pin the rabbit by its neck or head. One of the safest positions is to have your rabbit tucked firmly in the crook of your arm while you are sitting down. Another is to sit with your legs crossed and your rabbit in hollow made by crossing your legs. Try not to make this process take too long, it may take you several attempts to trim all the nails. When you are certain your rabbit is calm and secure you can carefully clip the tip of the nail. Only clip a little bit at a time. Unless you can clearly see the nerve, do not go far down the length of the nail. Be especially careful of black nails as you will not be able to see the nerve. If you do happen to cut to far down the length of the nail the nerve will bleed (same as cutting your own nail too short). This will both frighten and hurt the rabbit, which will result in a bite or kick. When your are finnished the nail trimming reward your rabbit with a treat. This nail trimming method can be used for dog, cat or other small animals. Remember always be firm but gentle, reward with a treat and attention, ensure the environment is secure and your pet's well being is of the utmost importance at all times. |
