You should trim your cat's nails every one to four weeks, depending on their activity level, age, and scratching habits. Here’s a quick guide:

• Activity level: Active cats, like those who spend time outside or use scratching posts, may wear down their nails more and only need trimming once a month.
• Age: Mature cats usually need more frequent trims than kittens.
• Scratching habits: If your cat is tearing into furniture or scratching more than usual, it might be time to trim their nails.

You can tell it's time to trim your cat's nails when they're long, curved, and sharp. If left untrimmed, long nails can grow into your cat's footpads, causing pain and mobility issues. Regular trims can also help prevent ingrown claws and broken claws.

But it’s not just cats that need nail care—birds and reptiles do too! Proper nail maintenance is essential for their comfort and health. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort, mobility issues, and even injury in these pets.

At Paws and Fins Pet Shop on Bainbridge Island, we understand the unique needs of all your pets. We’re here to advise you on best practices for nail care and can provide appointments for our expert team to handle the trimming for you. Whether you have a cat, bird, reptile, or another pet, let us help keep their nails in perfect condition!