toe-nail clipping

[2littlepiggies]

Does anyone have any suggestions for keeping nails trim without having to actually clip them? I read about putting bricks in the cage to help file them as they walk over them. I also read that it really doesn't work. I thought that maybe lining the cage with very fine sand paper might work. I would still put bedding in, but leave a certain area exposed so as they run and play the nails would get filed. Any ideas on whether that could be detrimental to the pigs health? (Of course, the edges would be secured properly so that it couldn't be eaten). Appreciate your thoughts and advise.

 

[loves2travel]

mmm, i wouldnt reccomen the sandpaper. about the brick, i would definately try it. try putting food or water on the brick so they are more likely to step on it daily.

 

[loves2travel]

also, bricks will keep them cool in hot weather, so its a double purpose.

 

[loves2travel]

By the way,

WELCOME TO THE FORUMS!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[2littlepiggies]

Thanks! So why wouldn't you recommend it?

 

[loves2travel]

why wouldn't i reccomend the sandpaper???? well, the technique of putting bedding in only some spots sounds somewhat disasterous. our darling piggies always seem to pee exactly where we dont want them to, and they will probably end up using the exposed patches as a toilet. then it will get messy and dirty...........chaos in the cage!

besides, they would probably kick shavings around when they walked about anyways, so those exposed patches would probably soon be covered within minutes of you putting the in the cage.

also, brick, which is reusable, will last longer and is probably more cheaper than sandpaper.

 

[tashagurl]

The sandpaper may irritate their feet. I couldnt use it because my 9 year old male has reocurring foot problems.

 

[mncavylover]

I think it may wear their feet down sa well. It was an ok idea, just not too good for anyone. Bricks are a much better, and less costly, option.

 

[loves2travel]

yup yup. go for the bricks!

 

[CavyCrazyMom]

Sandpaper will wear down their nails alright....but take their skin right along with it. Just like with bird perches made of sand paper, it's just not a great idea. Get the brick, it's less abrasive and like they said, it'll keep them cool in the summer!

 

[Piglet]

tashagurl. you have a 9 year old pig? Amazing!

I have a brick patio, but it doesn't really seem to wearing down the nails. It probably is, but just a teeny bit