Does a Drummel or Dremel tool work to trim cat’s nails?

Our question this week was:

I heard about Dremel type tool being used to trim dog nails – can it also be used on cats?

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Melody

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. You asked if a dremel type tool or nail grinder can been used to trim a cats nails.

Yes, in fact, I have recently used a dremel type tool to trim cat’s nails. We at Petplace.com recently tested a couple nail grinders. One called Pedi-paws and a second one called Gentle Paws – both of which worked quite well. There are several on the market.

The Pedi-paws device has a protective plastic shell around the sandpaper grinder that allows a pet nail to enter and thus be ground or shortened. It is important to introduce it slowly to a cat. Show it to them and pet them with it before restraining them to do their nails. This same philosophy should be used with introducing anything to your cat. Gradual introduction is important.

Some cats don’t mind it at all and other cats hate the sound and vibration. If your cat hates it – it is probably best to go to a traditional nail trimmer.

An article that might be helpful to you is How to Trim Your Cats Nails with a Nail Grinder or Dremel Tool.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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