Nails getting long

[thumpers momma]

So Thumper’s nails seem to be growing (they’re not SUPER long, I can see the quick very easily) but they’re not at a length where I feel I can comfortably clip them, as I’ve never done it before. I know I will need to do it, but I have a vet appointment scheduled for the 27th of this month. Can we wait to clip her nails then? I would feel so much more comfortable having someone physically show me the proper way to do it so that I don’t have to worry about hurting her. Again, they’re not super long but she has started digging at the carpet occasionally (which she has never done before) and I have read that that can be a sign that their nails are getting too long.

[Wick & Fable]

Too long is also if the toes can’t effortlessly be flat, as in the nail is curved enough that the toes are pushed upward a bit. This can be uncomfortable and lead to joint issues.

The answers provided in this discussion are for general guideline purposes only. The information is not intended to diagnose or treat your pet. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or a qualified behaviorist.

[puffs-of-fluff]

I’m sure you can wait if they aren’t too long, but it really should be something you learn to do, as they are more likely to dislocate or break a toe if their nails are long and they get caught on things.

Do you have a pet shop near you that does nail clippings? I don’t think it necessarily needs an experienced vet. Maybe they could show you when you buy a clippers. It’s really easy. I’m not sure that I cut my bunnies nails as closely as my vet, but even taking a bit of the length off will help.

What colour is Thumper? I can cut Ethel’s nails really easily, as i can see the blood vessels (she is white, so her nails are clear). I struggle with Gussy’s black nails as always cautious of cutting too low – i have to guess with him

[thumpers momma]

Thumper is white as well so it’s easy to see through her nails. I don’t live in a hugely populated area (hello from North Dakota) but we do have a few exotic vets here, which is about the extent of services there are for bunnies around here. I’m going to ask the vet some questions/hopefully have them show me how to do it (or even if I can just watch when they do it) when I go. Thanks for the help! Any suggestions for nail clippers? I bought a crappy pair from petsmart that I don’t even dare use on them because it doesn’t seem like quality equipment at all, lol.

[puffs-of-fluff]

Watch the vet do it, but to be honest, when i do it at home, i don’t do it like my vet does, as they are calmer with me. The vet will hold the bun against her chest with one arm to stop her struggling, and clip the nail with the other hand. When i do it, i just sit my bun on my lap, and hold her paw out from under her with one hand and clip with the other. They would never do this for the vet though, so it depends on how your bun is with you.

Clipper-wise, mine don’t look like human clippers, it looks more like a tiny rose bush pruning tool. I’m sure what they sell at a pet store will be appropriate for animals, but just in case, buy one to bring along to your vet appointment and ask. You can always return it

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