Koufax and Dwight Schrute were adopted from Columbia Second Chance on separate occasions. Although it took some time for the two to warm up to each other, they are now buddies who enjoy cuddling on the bed and exploring together. Nail trims, however, was something they both agreed right away that they didn’t care for. Realizing that this was not going to be easy, their new family brought them to Rock Bridge Animal Hospital for assistance.
Cats, like people, all have different personalities and needs. When trying to get a cat (or any pet) comfortable with something like nail trims, it is important to adjust our handling and care to their individual preferences and comfort level. Doing this allows us to make the process less stressful and thus more successful now and in the future. Koufax and Dwight were a perfect example of how two cats require different handling.
Koufax LOVES squeeze ups! So much so that we put it in a lick mat to protect our fingers and slow him down. He requires constant treats in order to guarantee his participation in the process. As long as we are quick and use very little restraint with him, he allows us to trim his nails without any issues.
Dwight, on the other hand, doesn’t care for squeeze ups. He’s more of a cheese fellow. He’s also not comfortable eating until he feels the “danger” has passed. He will communicate his dislike with a grumble, so he gets lots of cheese breaks to keep him satisfied. Providing him the extra time to relax between paws allows us to perform his nail trims without restraint and prevents his stress level from escalating.
Both cats have benefitted from anxiety medication given prior to their visit. The more a pet’s stress escalates, the less likely they are to cooperate for procedures. Stress starts from the moment they enter their carrier, continues on the car ride to the hospital and when entering the building with all the new sights, sounds and smells. Giving Gabapentin 1-2 hours prior to leaving the house helps to reduce the effect that those stressors have even BEFORE we get to the nail trimming part. Once they are in the room, they experience the calming effects of Feliway diffusers which contain a calming pheromone and relaxing music.
With their routine visits for nail trims, we can monitor their weight, establish relationships with them, and learn their likes and dislikes, making visits better overall. Creating a more positive experience for something they don’t like will help to make future medical visits more pleasant for them.
“When we would first bring them in it was pretty stressful on them, but the mix of a calming environment, careful handling, and lots and lots of treats has helped make the visits less stressful for them!” – Jacob (Owner)
-Abigayle