Do you have constantly scratched hands, puffs on the curtains, upholstery of the sofa and pieces of wallpaper hanging? Congratulations, you are the happy owner of an active and healthy cat, well, or a cat - whoever likes. Although some animals from their young owners, as they say, the claws are taught to use claws. But if you are not one of these lucky ones, then most likely you often wonder how to wean a fluffy pet from spoiling your property. This is where the information from the article comes in handy.
So, how can you quickly and painlessly solve the problem? And rather simple devices from silicone, rubber or plastic, put on the claw of a frisky animal, will help us in this. Such nozzles are popularly known as "anti-scratches." You can buy them at any pet store at a price of 230 rubles or more, it all depends on the material and the glamor of the model.
In order for the cap to hold firmly, its inner part or the surface of the claw itself is covered with a special adhesive, which is included in the kit. To put on the device conveniently, you should first gently press the cat’s finger to release the claw. After that, it will be easy to carry out the manipulation. However, let's see if these protections are so safe, and whether the information provided by manufacturers is true. And also consider reviews of caps on the nails of cats.
What are the pads used for?
As noted in the reviews, caps on the claws of cats completely repeat the outline of the claws of the animal, except for the sharp tip. That is, they have an identical anatomical shape. They are fastened with special glue, which allows the device to serve for a long time - at least a month. As already mentioned, such pads are made of silicone, rubber and plastic, and the first material is lighter, more practical and convenient. It does not injure finger pads and allows the cat to move freely.
Caps for cats on claws have an anatomical shape, that is, they exactly repeat the natural outline of feline “scratches” with the exception of their sharp end. They are attached to a special glue and hold for a long time: at least 30 days. Such linings are made of rubber and silicone, and the second material is much more practical and easier. Silicone is soft, plastic, does not injure the pads of the cat’s fingers and does not prevent it from moving.
Despite the fact that silicone anti-scratches are practically weightless, cats are very sensitive to them, so at first do not be surprised if your pet behaves strangely - hesitantly walks like a drunk and freezes in place. For complete adaptation, several days should pass, after which the cat will forget about his new manicure. If, nevertheless, your fluffy behaves aggressively and breaks the protection from its claws, you must try to calm him down and gently glue new caps. Over time, the animal will understand that these devices do not pose any threat to him.
The process of using claw caps
For cats, manufacturers have tried and released a variety of devices. From what material to buy anti-scratches - the owner of the animal decides.
Such products are sold in whole sets, which include, in fact, pads in the amount of 40 pieces and glue, the composition is similar to that used for gluing false eyelashes. Judging by the photo, caps on the claws of cats are the most incredible colors. In addition, for your glamorous cat you can pick up transparent products decorated with various rhinestones and sparkles. Your fluffy beauty will look simply stunning.
So, we learn to put on protection on claws:
- First, we cut and grind the claws.
- We try on the products and see that they do not press on the pads and do not interfere with the animal's movement.
- If the scratches are too big, you can cut them a little.
- Press lightly on the base of the cat's finger and grease the bare claw with glue. You can drip a little into the cap itself. However, do not overdo it, otherwise your cats will not be able to walk with glued fingers. In addition, it can cause him severe pain and cause inflammation or allergies.
- Put on the nozzle tightly. Try to do it efficiently, as the glue hardens instantly and it will be difficult to change something.
Please note that it is not necessary to stick anti-scratches of the same color, you can dress your pet in multi-colored ones, which will amuse all household members.
Opinion of veterinarians
So, how practical and useful are claw caps for cats? The reviews of the veterinarians, surprisingly, are not as encouraging as some furry owners suggest. Here are some of the disadvantages that experts highlight:
- Such a procedure definitely provokes stress in the animal, the duration of which can upset the owner. After all, nature has laid down that cats must grind their claws on their own. When they are deprived of such an opportunity, they, unfortunately, cannot fully adapt to new conditions, but simply accept the decision of their master.
- Silicone caps on the claws of cats are very annoying and cause great discomfort. The animal is not able to run and jump normally, and often it’s rather difficult for him to walk.
- If your pet has free access to the street, veterinarians advise in no case to wear anti-scratches on him. Otherwise, the animal simply will not be able to protect itself in case of danger or climb a tree, running away from dogs.
- If you are thinking about promptly removing your cat’s claws, think a hundred times before doing this. After all, such actions can cause serious injury to the pet, from which he may never recover.
Veterinarian Tips
Here is what the experts say about this:
- Stick protection to an exceptionally healthy animal. In the presence of infectious and fungal lesions on the legs, this can not be done.
- Make sure that dirt and pathogenic microorganisms do not accumulate between the fingertip and the cap, otherwise this will threaten your cat with big health problems.
- Stick anti-scratches carefully and efficiently so that excess glue does not inadvertently glue the animal’s fingers. This can lead not only to discomfort, but to the development of inflammation and allergies.
- Judging by the reviews, silicone caps for cat's claws can provoke irritation, allergies and swelling. If such symptoms are found, immediately consult a veterinarian who will safely remove the linings and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
What disadvantages do owners see?
Many owners who use silicone caps on the claws of cats, leave positive reviews about them. However, there are those who are categorically against such mockery of animals. Here's how they argue for it:
- Such devices are contrary to feline nature. The animal continues instinctively sharpening its claws and becomes nervous when it does not work out for him.
- Clay often causes severe allergies, which a caring owner then has to struggle for a long time.
- Severe irritation from wearing foreign objects makes the cat remove them by any means, as a result of which the pet often injures the limbs.
- Claw mobility is impaired, causing the animal to limp.
- An infection often develops under the caps.
- Such accessories can make an aggressive and unfriendly creature out of a cat.
Positive feedback from owners
But, on the other hand, there are pluses too:
- A variety of sizes allows you to choose the one that is suitable for the age and size of the animal.
- Qualitatively glued caps are practically not felt on the paws, so fluffy can continue to lead a familiar lifestyle.
- Judging by the reviews, it is advisable to wear caps on claws of cats when visiting a veterinarian and during participation in exhibitions in order to avoid injuring others, especially if a cat with character.
- A beautiful cat manicure looks very impressive.
Conclusion
Whether or not to use silicone protection on the claws of your pet is up to you. Before deciding to take this step, study all the pros and cons so that in no case do you harm your four-legged friend. In the presence of negative reactions from the animal, as well as the development of diseases from wearing anti-scratches, it is urgent to seek veterinary help.