What are Soft Paws for cats?
Soft Paws are little rubber tips that we can glue on the tips of their nails. Most cats tolerate this well with just a mild oral sedative that they get before their appointment. It's something we can offer here at Green Valley Veterinary Care. Sometimes we do have to completely sedate them if they don't want to hold still for us to do it. We glue these on with a bit of nail glue that comes with the kits, and then we put these on.
They fall off naturally as their nails grow, and then they just come back in if needed, and we can do the process again.
How often do cats need Soft Paws replaced?
Pickles here in our tutorial video gets his about every four to eight weeks. It depends on how often he gets them off. We just offer him a little bit of medication before his appointment today, some cheese, and some light restraint that he handled very well.
How to Apply Soft Paws Nail Caps to Your Pet
1. Trim the Nails First
- Trim just the sharp tip of the nail.
- Do not cut the nail as short as possible.
- Leaving a little length helps the nail cap grip better.
2. Fill the Nail Cap with Glue
- Add a small amount of glue inside the nail cap.
- Fill it only about one-third to halfway (just to where the cap begins to curve).
- Avoid overfilling to prevent mess and discomfort.
3. Move Fur Out of the Way
- Gently pull back any hair around the nail.
- This helps prevent glue from sticking to your pet’s fur.
4. Slide the Cap Onto the Nail
- Place the cap over the nail and push it on until it covers the nail tip.
- Do not push it all the way to the nail bed (the base of the nail).
- Leaving a small gap helps prevent irritation.
5. Hold Briefly to Set
- Apply gentle pressure for a few seconds so the cap stays in place while the glue begins to set.
Safety Tips for Pet Parents Applying Soft Paws
- Work in a calm environment and take breaks if your pet gets wiggly.
- Use treats and praise to create a positive experience.
- Check nails regularly and replace caps as they grow out or fall off.
If you’re searching for veterinary care you can rely on, we’re here to help. Call (937) 358-8142 or email [email protected] to schedule your pet’s appointment. Our team is committed to keeping your pet happy and healthy.