Clip Claws...

[redbird]

I have a huge problem clipping Autumn's claws, actually I can't even get near her to do them.

Also she is a problem getting her into the carrier when she has a vet visit. I have cancelled numerous vet appointments because of this. I do take out the carrier days before time so she gets used to it and she does go in and out of it but when the day comes, I have a huge problem. I have had to scruff her but sometimes she gets away.

Anyway are you able to clip your kitty's claws or get her/him to a vet without a major problem.

[BitsyNaceyDog]

At our house clipping nails is a two person job. I can clip a couple of the cats without help, but it generally goes smother with two people. My husband holds the cats and I clip their nails.

As for crating her, how big is the crate? I used to work at a boarding facility and I saw a lot of cats fight the smaller crates. It was always much easier to get cats into larger crates. We'd often sit the crate upright, so the door was pointed toward the ceiling, and while holding the cat's back against our chest and supporting/holding their back feet, we could lower them into the crate. Once the door was shut we could slowly and gently lower the crate into it's correct position.

Also, I have a cat who doesn't like crates, but loves and willingly goes into a sherpa-bag like the one pictured below.

[Karen]

Try it one paw at a time when she is sleepy, try every time you see her sleeping, go over to her and touch her paws. Then some time, try clipping one paw, the next time just pet her, then she'll get used to it.

Whatever you do, don't try doing all 4 paws at once!

[moosmom]

I have a ritual every Saturday night (most women would be out on a date, but not me!!). My 20 lb. cat Spikerdude is the only one that is squirmy. I have to literally lay him on his back in my lap (he's too fat to get out of it). He has calouses that grow out of his pads that have to be clipped too. It's very tricky and he hates it!!

They have these clips out that grasp the nap of the neck on a cat that will allow you to use both hands. Might want to try that!

[redbird]

Thanks for all your suggestions but if you knew Autumn you would realize it is a no win. I have two carriers, a large hard covered one and I do stand it upright so I can slip her in from the top. The smaller one is a sherpa as is shown but that was difficult to get her in even thru the top which also opened. This little gal is a toughie, and presents a huge problem when she needs to get to the vet. I will just have to fight with her each time and only the vet will be able to clip her nails. I couldn't ask anyone to help me either since she runs from strangers.

[sasvermont]

I try to trap my victim in a small room or hallway and shut the doors. Once they are trapped, they usually give up. Have you the ability to trap her in the bathroom? Feed her a couple of days in a row, in that room then on the day of the office visit, you should have no problem. You should also wear gloves if she is a biter. As far as clipping nails, I've given up. I count on them using the scratching posts and keeping their nails in good shape that way.

It is much easier to have two people to do the nail clipping, if that is possible.

We all feel your pain!

[mrspunkysmom]

I usually have to scruff my kitties and put them in the carriers bass ackwards. I drop them in from above. I have to cage Spunky first if I am taking multiple cats out. He usually knows what's up even if I don't project.

I can't trim their nails. I might try some of the suggestions.

Good luck.