Nail Trimming: Quick Awareness & Claw Care for Cats and Dogs

Roman's Empire • May 26, 2025

Whether you're a dog devotee or a cat connoisseur, regular nail care is essential to your pet’s health and comfort.


 Nail trimming might seem like a minor grooming task, but when skipped or done incorrectly, it can have painful consequences.


Let’s dig our claws in.


The Quick Lowdown: What’s the “Quick”?

Inside every pet nail lives a vein called the “quick.” This is the sensitive, living part of the nail that supplies blood to it. When nails grow too long, the quick grows along with it.


That means infrequent trims don’t just make nails longer—the quicks grow out with them. And cutting into the quick? Painful. It bleeds, it hurts, and it makes pets (understandably) nervous about nail trims in the future.


How Do You Recede the Quick?

Consistent trimming (or filing) encourages the quick to shrink back over time. This allows you to shorten the nails gradually without hurting your pet.


If you’ve ever had a groomer say your pet’s nails “can’t go any shorter,” this is usually why. Hurried trimming past the quick isn't just painful—it’s traumatic and counterproductive. Trust the slow-and-steady method.


We've had clients request us to trim past the quick despite being informed. We will never honor that request. Want them shorter? Get on a schedule.


Trimming vs. Filing: What’s the Difference?

Trimming cuts the nail with clippers—quick and effective but can leave sharp or jagged edges.

Filing smooths the edges and can be more precise. It’s especially helpful for:

  • Dogs with sensitive feet
  • Elderly pets prone to cracked nails
  • Cats with brittle claws
  • Owners worried about scratched floors or skin


At Roman’s Empire, we assess your pet’s tolerance and needs before deciding which approach is best. Sometimes we do both!


Cat Claws: Special Considerations

Unlike dogs, cats naturally shed their outer claw sheaths. You may have found a few of these around your house—it’s normal!


But this doesn’t mean your cat doesn’t need nail trims. The sharp tip beneath the sheath can still grow too long, curl under, or snag carpets and furniture—or worse, pierce their paw pads. Ouch.


Scratching Furniture? Here’s What’s Really Going On

Your cat isn’t trying to destroy your couch for sport (despite what it looks like).

Scratching:

  • Helps them shed the outer sheath of their claws
  • Stretches and strengthens shoulder and back muscles
  • Marks territory with scent glands in their paws


What You Can Do:

  • Provide vertical and horizontal scratchers
  • Sprinkle catnip to encourage use
  • Keep claws trimmed to minimize damage
  • Never declaw—it’s amputation, not a manicure


Why Regular Nail Care Matters

  • For dogs: Long nails affect posture, joint alignment, and can cause limping or arthritis over time. They can curl into the pad if left unattended.
  • For cats: Curled or overgrown claws can embed in paw pads and lead to infection or injury.
  • For everyone: Overgrown nails can cause accidents on slick floors or damage to skin during play.


A Note on Frequency

Most pets benefit from nail care every 3–6 weeks. Some need it even more frequently—especially seniors, indoor cats and dogs, and pets whose nails grow fast due to diet or breed.


See why staying on a schedule is crucial and how at home grooming isn't a replacement.


At Roman’s Empire, we never rush nail care. It’s an art and a science—done with intention, precision, and compassion.

We’ll help your pet feel comfortable, respected, and safe every step of the way.


Ready to get your pet on a healthy nail care schedule?
Book your appointment today in Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Camarillo, Simi Valley, and beyond!


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