Guinea pigs are known to be wonderful pets. They can be a fan favorite, talking back to their owners and also serving to be affectionate. But clearly enough, having a pet brings along some duties and responsibilities, and it is important to know as much as possible about your pet’s requirements and tend to them. One of those responsibilities is that of nail maintenance and cutting of your pet.
While it can sound intimidating – which is a common belief – doing it regularly benefits your guinea pig’s general health and well-being. This paper aims to provide the readers with all the important information and practical advice related to the process of guinea pig nail cutting.
Guinea pigs are better in practically all aspects when viewed on comparison with hamsters or gerbils which are also considered small pets. Like all pets, they have a few rituals that have to be observed in their day-to-day activities. One such ritual is nail clipping which is to be observed for the general wellbeing of the guinea pig.
If this is not observed, the nails can lengthen to an extent where they cause pain, mobility problems, and in some cases even cause infections. But, if done properly, nail trimming, is an easy task for both you and your guinea pig.
Check this post: Can guinea pigs wear leashes?
Nail trimming: why is it needed?
Nail growth of guinea pigs
The growth pattern of guinea pig nails is the same as that of humans; they keep growing throughout life. When these animals are outside their habitat, their nails are kept short through digging, climbing, searching for food, etc. In an indoor atmosphere, most common pets do not get such surfaces or activities that would keep their nails worn out. As a result, neglecting nail maintenance can lead to the nails being very long and causing different illnesses.
Causes of careless trimming of nails
Many problems, including the following, could arise in guinea pigs with overgrown nails:
Nail pain: too long nails could curl and grow into the pads at the bottom of the paw, which is very painful.
Movement restriction: Ana ailment of this kind could also restrict their movement and make it hard for them to walk or run.
Inevitably am infection: another instinct problem that the guinea pigs could face is that of getting injured by the tips of the nails, which are sharp, especially if the nails are overgrown. Such injuries could, in turn, lead to skin infections.
Changes in behavior: in turn, such long nails may result in the host discomfort and elevate irritability or lower the activity level of your guinea pig.
Nail maintenance efforts
The regularity of nail trimming depends on the activity levels of your guinea, as well as the environment independent objects present. For an average guinea pig, it is recommended to trim his nails every 4-6 weeks. Some guinea pigs, however, may need to nurture themselves more often than others if, for instance, their nails are excessively long.
Tools needed for trimming
It is of great importance to have the required tools that help you trim nails safely and with ease. Here is a list of things that you will require:
Types of nail clippers suitable for guinea pigs
Pet clippers – pet clippers are small pet specific clippers that have a deep curve on the edges which assist in cutting small pet nails.
Scissor nail clippers – for some, they are the best, although they should be sharp and precise in order to avoid crushing the nail.
Electric grinders– for those who do not want to use clippers or nails clippers, electric nail grinders can be an option, but they have to be used carefully so as not to cause any accidents.
Significance of styptic powder
Nail trimming has its risks, e.g. nail trimming can tear the nail, cutting the quick creates mess. It is imperative to have styptic powder because it assists in controlling bleeding and it can prevent infection.
Optional tools
Magnifying glass: identifying the quick of dark nails can be tricky, but a magnifying glass can help.
Towel or soft blanket: makes pet nail trimming les stressful by providing comfort.
Treats: treats are a good idea to use them to calm and praise the guinea pigs.
Guinea pigs — safe nail trimming procedures
Preparation
Pick a quiet room: make sure the room you select is calm for both you and your guinea pig.
Have the tools: allow plenty of time to assemble your time and clippers, and everything else you may require.
Wrap your guinea pig: tightly snared in a towel, expose one paw at a time to keep the guinea pig from fighting.
Procedure for trimming
Calm your guinea pig: hold your guinea pig in a firm grip while ensuring that you don’t go hard on them. A reassuring voice can calm them down.
Know the quick: the quick is an area that is often seen in nails that have light coloration, as a pink area within the nail. In dark nails, it is concealed, so do not assume all that you can see has to be cut off.
Cut nail: cut the nail with clippers at a 45-degree angle so as not to cut into the quick part of the nail. Cut only the sharp tip of a nail if unsure.
Hold the edges in place: if required, lightly file the edges of the hole to prevent snags.
Please reward your guinea pig: provide your guinea pig with a reward of a treat and a pat.
Alternatives to home trimming
Veterinarian services – most vets have nail cutting offered in their grooming services.
Professional groomers – specialized groomers know how to trim guinea pig nails effectively.
Pet salons – some pet salons that work with smaller animals provide nail trimming services.
First-timer trimmers pre-rituals
People get jitters when doing the nails of guinea pigs for a first time. Some tips for making the experience better are offered below:
Practice patience
Do not rush the process. Give space and time for your guinea pig to become familiar with handling.
Stay calm: your calm demeanor will permit your guinea pig to stay calm.
Rewarding your guinea pig
Offering positive reinforcement: through offering treats and soft compliments to your guinea pig after trimming, it is possible to encourage him to look at trimming in a positive light in the times to come.
Consistency: it takes times but consistent rewarding’s builds trust and will cause a decrease in anxiousness in the guinea pig in the long run.
Enhancing the positive experience of trimming
Regular handling: in which case, doing so on a frequent basis will help your piggy become accustomed to having their paws two-handled on off-trimming occasions so that the activity itself is not very upsetting.
Short sessions: teem length might be increased gradually as the piggy gets more and more used to the experience but in the beginning, the period of maintaining guinea pigs in such ‘trimming’ conditions should be very short to avoid stress.
Common mistakes to avoid
Cutting too much: if, on the other hand, you are trying to trim nails, make it a point to cut off only the furthest tips.
Using the wrong tools: to prevent the risk of breaking the nail, remember to use clippers made for small pets.
Rushing the process: work slowly and carefully and this will enable both you and your guinea pig to remain calm.
Neglecting aftercare: monitor your guinea pig for any signs of distress or injury and always ensure to have the styptic powder on standby after trimming.
Best nail trimming schedule for your guinea pig
There are many advantages in regularly trimming your guinea pig’s nails:
Less restriction of movement: having shorter fingernails makes it comfortable for your guinea pig to move around.
Health: there will be less chances of infections and injuries caused by the nails getting too long.
Less difficulty in handling: in the event of grabbing a guinea pig, the nails are less likely to inflict any scratches making the process easier as well.
Comfort: since the guinea pig’s nails are well kept, it adds to the overall degree of happiness.
Summary
In conclusion, nails trimming is very important because it will reduce additional stress maintenance for the guinea pigs. It may seem a little overwhelming at first although with the proper tools, techniques, and. A calm demeanor, anything can be done at home.
As always, be patient and take your time while tending to the guinea pig. If there is any confusion or too much difficulty involved, there is no shame in asking professionals. Keeping their nails trimmed will keep them comfortable and safe for the domestic environment.
