Polski
Nail care for rodents and rabbits | nail grinding & clipping
- Voor 17 uur besteld, dezelfde dag verzonden!
- Specialist sinds 2011
- Delivery from our own stock
Nail care for rodents and rabbits
Too-long nails can be inconvenient for your pet: walking is less pleasant, and nails can get caught. The good news is that you can often do a lot with clever design, so nails wear down naturally. And if clipping is necessary, suitable nail scissors or clippers will help you do it neatly and in a controlled manner.
In this category, you'll find tools for wearing down nails (such as terracotta and rough surfaces) as well as materials for safe clipping . DRD Rodent Shop® has been a specialist since 2011.
Wearing down nails
Many animals wear down their nails primarily through walking, climbing, or digging. With the right accessories, you can accommodate these natural "wearing moments" in the enclosure:
- Terracotta accessories (tunnels, houses, bowls): animals like to walk over or through them, which causes their nails to wear down gently.
- Rough stones/platforms : useful in places where your animal often comes (for example at feeding or resting places).
- Climbing routes for climbers (mouse, rat, gerbil): a route with variation in structure helps natural wear and tear.
Cutting nails
Sometimes clipping is still necessary, for example, if nails grow quickly or if your pet doesn't wear them often. In that case, it's best to use nail scissors or clippers that are appropriate for the size of the nail and the animal's hand. Cut small pieces and work slowly.
Selection aid per animal species
- Rabbits: A rough stone or terracotta element in a place where they often walk (for example, near a digging bucket or feeding area) can help with wear; clipping is still sometimes necessary.
- Guinea pigs: Terracotta tunnels and runs are popular; many guinea pigs use tunnels daily, which is helpful for gradual wear and tear.
- Rats: Climbing and clambering helps; combine climbing elements with varied structures. Check regularly, especially with older animals.
- Hamsters and dwarf hamsters: Terracotta houses/platforms and rough walkways can be helpful. Make sure accessories are stable.
- Mice & gerbils: creating a route with climbing and running areas often works well; check occasionally to see if clipping is necessary.
Checklist
- I check nails regularly (for example once every 2–4 weeks, depending on the animal and surface).
- I look at posture and gait: does your animal get caught on something or is its foot positioned differently?
- I have created one or more “wear spots” (terracotta/rough surface) in the enclosure.
- If clipping is necessary: I use suitable nail scissors/cutters and ensure a good grip and calm lighting.
- If I'm unsure, I'll have a vet or groomer demonstrate it for me.
Practical tips
- Place a rough stone or terracotta element in a "logical walking place" (for example, route to food or favorite tunnel).
- Make clipping easier by doing it in small steps: first get used to holding, then one nail, later the rest.
- Preferably clip when your animal is calm (after eating or after an active moment).
- Use a reward that is appropriate for your animal (for example, a small snack or a favourite vegetable for a rabbit/guinea pig).
Safe use
- Never cut by feel. Ensure good lighting and cut small sections; extra care is important with dark nails.
- Use only stable, sturdy wear elements and check them for wear or sharp edges.
- If there is blood, pain, limping or sudden strong resistance: stop and have an expert take a look.
FAQ Nail Care
How often should I cut my nails?
This varies by animal and the type of surface. Check regularly; some animals wear out a lot on their own, others need more help.
What helps most to wear down nails?
A combination often works best: terracotta/rough surfaces in walking areas and a design that invites walking, climbing or digging.
My pet finds clipping nerves nerve-wracking. What can I do?
Work in short bursts and make it predictable. If it remains stressful, have a vet or groomer demonstrate it (once).
Which products are suitable for my animal species?
Observe behaviour: climbers (mouse/rat/gerbil) benefit from climbing elements, runners (guinea pig/rabbit) from terracotta tunnels and rough running surfaces.
