Rabbit Grooming - How To Trim Your Rabbits Nails

Countless pet owners, whether they own pet rabbits, dogs, cats, or other pets, which require regular nail trimming, are anxious about the day they have to groom their pet's nails. They frequently postpone the trimming, which leads to overgrown nails, and possible injury to both the rabbit and members of their human family. Naturally they have apprehension that they will hit the quick, or that their pet will go ballistic and the owner will walk away not succeeding. I know there is a fear that overcomes me when it is time to trim nails. The good news is the more often you groom your rabbit and trim their nails, the more quickly your bunny will adapt and you will gain knowledge with each trimming. Not to mention how much money you will save by doing it yourself! It does get easier with time. It takes determination, patience..., and dexterity!

You should groom your pet rabbit's nails about every three weeks. Initially it may feel awkward and will be challenging, but you will soon develop a method that is both comfortable for you and your bunny and it will become much easier. Your bunny will also become used to the apparatus used and not be leery of the unfamiliar items he is approached with during nail trimming time.

Before attempting this alone, have assistance the first few times until you feel comfortable doing it on your own. Having another pair of hands available will be beneficial while you learn the technique. In addition, not trying to fear you, wear long sleeves and jeans, this will protect your skin, just in case your pet rabbit begins to scratch at you.

Organize the Rabbit Grooming Materials:

Towel - use this to drape your bunny in, securing him well. Do not wrap him too tightly, just enough to protect yourself from his other feet.

Clippers - there are several varieties. The type we "humans" use, which, in my opinion, work as a last resort. A durable style that I describe as a "guillotine" design and the one I suggest, which are similar to scissors, but have a dip in one of the blades. The first two, in my view, consume too much time to get them around the nail placed properly, while the scissors are much more simple, quick, and accurate.

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Cotton - in case you do cut into the "quick" you need to apply pressure to stop the bleeding. The cotton will also absorb the blood. Your bunny may bleed quite a bit, do not be shocked, it is not uncommon and it will stop.

Coagulants - these are different items to aid in ceasing the bleeding if you should cut into the quick. Usually it's not if you cut into the quick, it's when. Commercially you can purchase styptic powder. Everyday household items that can also be used are cornstarch or flour. You can also press your rabbits nail into bar of MILD soap, though I have never tried this method, I have read that it does work. Be sure to wipe away excess blood before you apply any of the coagulants.

When you are trimming their nails, only remove one foot at a time from the towel or wrap. Do not cut them short, which helps to avoid cutting into the quick. Only trim the tips and though you may have to groom your rabbit more frequently than others do, you will benefit from doing so. Your rabbit will become used to having his nails trimmed and you will be sure to keep them well-groomed, reducing injury to your pet rabbit and yourself.

When you are trimming their nails, in order to keep from hitting the quick, inspect the nails and you will notice a darker area (in lighter coloured nails) which is the vein, which is what I refer to as the "quick". DO NOT cut into that area. Nipping off the tips frequently is much more effective than taking a chance at injuring your pet rabbit. If their nails are darker in colour, use a flashlight, shining it from under the nail to help locate the vein, or the "quick".

Grooming your pet rabbit should not cause anxiety for you or your rabbit. With repetition, this time will become quality time spent together. You will soon become skilful in nail trimming and your bunny will become assured, and it will not be a dreaded event for either of you.

About the Author:

Sue Durivage: If you would like more information about Pet Rabbits and their care and other concerns please visit my informative website, which goes into more detail regarding pet rabbits. I will also be happy to answer questions or research specific questions that I do not have the answers. Simply leave me a comment on my website, updated several times per week: Pet Rabbits

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