How to trim your rabbits nails

Hints and tips before you get started

• Get them comfortable with you touching their paws: before you start clipping your rabbit’s nails spend a few days getting them familiar with you handling their paws and touching their nails. Start by picking up each paw for just a few seconds, then gradually extend the amount of time until they are comfortable with you handling their paws and touching their nails. 

• Get them familiar with the clippers: let them see and sniff them. You can also cut spaghetti while holding their paw so they can hear the sound of them in action. Reward them along the way with treats, praise, pats etc. so they associate trimming nails as a positive experience.  

• Allow plenty of time: trimming your rabbit’s nails should not be rushed. You need to spend time looking at the nail prior to cutting. This will help you identify the nerve and blood supply and how to avoid this when cutting the nail. It can also take time for your rabbit to get used to having their nails cut. You may only cut a few nails or one paw at a time, with other activities or resting in between.

• Wait until your rabbit is relaxed: choose a place in a quiet room where you can both get comfortable. Wait until your rabbit is calm and ready. Make sure there is no distracting action around or through nearby windows and ideally no other pets around.

• Keep it positive: don’t forget to reward them along the way to make it a positive experience for both of you. Give your rabbit plenty of praise, pats and treats to encourage their good behaviour. Never punish them if they resist. Rather seek help from a professional groomer or speak to your local vet for assistance.

How to trim your rabbit’s nails

Make sure you rabbit is in a comfortable position, such as on your lap or on a table with you supporting them.

Examine your rabbit’s nails to identify the nerve and blood supply. You will need to gently move their fur so you can see each nail clearly. You want to avoid cutting into the nerve and blood supply as it will result in bleeding and pain.

Most of the time the blood supply can be seen in a white or non-pigmented nail, which gives an idea where the nerve and hence pain sensation is likely to be felt. In most cases the nerve and blood supply appear to extend approximately the same distance down the nail. So if you cut 2-3 mm beyond this point you will rarely get bleeding or pain.

If the nails are all black the task can be very difficult. There are a variety of ways to determine where to cut the nail, depending on the rabbit. You can wet your fingers and rub them over the nail or shine a torch from behind the nail. This can sometimes highlight where the blood supply is. If you are having difficulties identifying the nerve and blood supply, it is best to speak to a groomer or your local vet for guidance before cutting your rabbit’s nails for the first time.

What if I don’t want to cut my rabbit’s nails at home

If you are unsure or would rather leave cutting your rabbit’s nails to the professionals you can book an appointment with our groomer or speak to one of our vets. They can trim your rabbit’s nails for you and can also show you how to cut your rabbit’s nails in the future.

If your rabbit shows aggression or is uncomfortable during the clipping session it is worth seeking professional help.

Guinea pig’s nails can be trimmed following the same guidelines.