Living in the countryside with predators around, I’m unsure whether trimming my cat’s claws is the right choice. While trimming can help with comfort and prevent damage to furniture, I worry it could slow my cat down if they need to escape danger.
Sharp claws are important for climbing and defending themselves, and I fear trimming might affect their ability to escape quickly if needed.
Just yesterday, Blu had a close call. He roamed around, and a fox was chasing him—we could hear the fox’s loud hurling noises! We found Blu high up in a tree, clinging on for dear life. It was steep, and he could hardly get down, but eventually, he figured out how to climb down in reverse. Without his sharp claws, I don’t think he could’ve gotten up there at all.
I was relieved he was safe, but he was very terrified.
Blu’s already a big boy—12 pounds at only 8 months old—and he loves chasing me for his boiled egg before bed. But his size might make it harder for him to escape quickly, so I’m really not sure if trimming his nails is the right move.
Although cats are agile and can still defend themselves with teeth and strong legs, I’m not sure how much trimming will impact their ability to climb or run away. It’s a tricky balance— maybe trim enough but not too much to affect their safety?
What do you think? Would you trim your cat’s claws, or would you be worried about their safety?
Have a lovely day, everyone!
Mariah 😺💗
Thank you 🩷😻
I never trim my cats' claws. They also go outdoors and they need all their natural defences. I just live with the damage the do to furniture, curtains etc
Great decision, I will do the same, some do trim because they said it can cause discomfort when it's too long, mine seems ok so far so I think I will leave it. Thank you. 😊🩷
Cats scratch things, especially wood to keep them trimmed and in shape themselves. Mine have their own favourite spots outside
I join the discussion by stating that I have three cats, and I have never cut their nails, as Nikv says, they need all the means to be able to defend themselves and climb!
<3
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