.This guy is very wiggly and does not like his feet handled.
You may already be aware of these, but just some tips based on my own experience. I do the entire routine without help. And, I don't try to distract with treats.....they come after the procedure.
I use scissors (I think they are termed kitten/small animal scissors) because they encircle the nail and won’t split it as human nail clippers can.
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I wrap the piggy burrito style so that I can control him by myself. Once he is wrapped up tightly, I first do the back nails as they are the most difficult. My Sparky (who is the ultimate mellow fellow) will kick and thrash the entire time and I like to get the most difficult part done first. I’m right handed, so he goes in my lap with my left forearm controlling him against my body and that hand holding his foot/toes as I work.
The back nails are cut with the scissors, and then the sharp edges smoothed with a Dremel. I then will often put quick-drying nail polish on them to further smooth them to protect my very sensitive skin. After this is done, I then expose his head and front paws and simply clip his front nails. I only occasionally use the Dremel on them. I should mention that I always use a latex/vinyl glove on the hand holding the nails, especially when it is the front nails and your cavy is tempted to bite……..or not.
NOW HERE IS THE REAL SECRET TO PAINLESS AND BLOODLESS NAIL CUTTING. Encircle the nail with the scissors and clamp down only half way until you put a little pressure on the nail. If you are too close to the quick, the piggy will wince and cry out. In that case, readjust your position and try again. If he doesn’t react, then you’re good to go and continue to cut the nail. This technique works especially well on black nails.
Should you make a mistake and cut a nail too short, try stopping the bleeding with cornstarch, flour, or a little sustained pressure. I will also use Vet Tissue Adhesive that dries in a few seconds. The one I recommend was developed for cats after a declawing procedure.
https://www.amazon.com/Liquivet-Tis...vet+adhesive&qid=1556321718&s= gateway&sr=8-9
Be VERY cautious with this…….it literally bonds in seconds and invariably will get on surfaces that you don’t want to bond. Use it gently and sparingly and be sure to wipe the tip before putting the cap on again and store it upright to avoid it clogging the spout. We also use this product for small cuts and scrapes on our skin, especially those nasty cracks one gets on the fingers in winter.
I have a grooming session about once a month when I clip nails, clean the genital area, clean ears and do a thorough brushing. It's not fun for either of us, but I have become pretty adept at it and it doesn't take an inordinate amount of time. Be sure to allow some post-procedure cuddle time.....a baby carrot or two seems to be the perfect peace offering and all is forgiven.