Help clipping nails!

[Guineapiggirl6]

I have a really hard time clipping my guinea pigs nails. It is so difficult that I am guilty of just ignoring it. When I try to clip her nails she bites, squeals and tries to run. Her nails are also curved! Does anyone have any advice? Should I get someone to help me?


Sorry, the photos aren`t great.

 

[Piggies&buns]

You can either: do it yourself which is easiest if there is someone to help you. Wrap piggy in a small towel leaving one foot out, have your helper hold piggy and the you can clip; or for a small fee, vet nurses will do it for you. I had the vets do my boys for the first few times until I had watched them enough and felt confident to be able to do it myself.

When doing it yourself, It is much easier to cut a little amount off very regularly, than taking a lot off with longer intervals in between each session

 

[Jamston]

I know what you mean I have only had guinea pigs for a year and this has been one of the harder tasks!

Perhaps you can ask your vet to clip them for you?

Another option could be to tuck her snuggly in a fleece with her feet out and distract her with veg!



I do front and back on different days to keep both our stress levels down.

 

[Winniepeg]

I was always scared to cut my piggies nails and used to take them to the vets . After Leo and Dougal passed away and subsequently adopting four boars (3 of them with black claws) I was determined to learn to do it. The lady at the GP rescue showed me and then I trimmed them myself at the vets under nurse supervision. With the help of a friend holding them I trim the back claws and I can do the front on my own. It’s taken a lot of practice and I still get nervous but it is getting easier each time. I trim a small amount at a time to avoid cutting the quick. The advice above is solid and I cannot add to it. I just want to reassure you that it is doable with support and practice. It has made my life easier from a financial and logistical point of view and less stressful than taking the piggies to the vets. Good luck