Companion Animals

Companion Animal Nail Care and Paw Welfare

Nail overgrowth in companion animals causes pain and postural problems that are entirely preventable with regular care.

Key Facts

Overgrown nails alter foot posture, causing joint stress and pain in dogs and cats
Neglected nails can curl into paw pads, causing embedded infections and severe pain
Regular nail trimming from puppyhood normalises the procedure reducing stress
Dogs walked on hard surfaces wear nails naturally; indoor cats require more frequent trimming
Fear-free nail trimming using positive reinforcement and gradual desensitisation reduces stress

Welfare Considerations

Nail overgrowth is a preventable welfare problem caused by neglect of routine care. Nails growing into paw pads cause acute pain and infection. Chronic overgrowth alters foot biomechanics causing joint stress over time. Regular nail trimming is a basic welfare responsibility for all companion animal owners.

What You Can Do

Establish regular nail trimming routines from pet puppyhood or kittenhood
Use positive reinforcement to build nail trimming tolerance in anxious animals
Ask your veterinarian or groomer to trim nails at routine appointments
Learn to trim nails safely with appropriate tools and guidance