Split and damaged claws are seen regularly in veterinary clinics and, often it's due to the claws being too long and becoming damaged with exercise.

Even cats need their claws trimmed occasionally. With cats, claw trimming can be part of the therapy for those monstrous moggies that claw furniture. Also, aged cats that are inactive often have very long claws that make it difficult for them to walk properly. A cat's long claws can even become caught in the carpet.

The very thought of trimming a pet's claws can cause tremendous fear. Immediately the nail cutters are picked up, shaking, trembling, hyperventilation, panicking and even aggression can occur. Similar behaviours are also seen in the pet but there are solutions!

Firstly, regular exercise on hard ground will help as the ground acts like an emery board.Provide your cat with a suitable scratching post (aside from your couch) - indoor cats may need more than one.

However, when a pet's nails need to be trimmed, the right equipment is essential. For dogs and cats, specialised trimmers are available from your pet shop and veterinarian. There are many styles, but the most common involves a spring-operated guillotine device. For young cats, the human, pincher-like nail trimmers that are readily available are suitable.

The object of claw trimming is to trim the end of the nail without touching the quick growing through the centre.

This is easy with white or clear nails as the quick can be clearly seen but it is Russian roulette with black nails, where trimming involves educated guess work. Trim the tip of the claw and look at the centre of the trimmed surface. The surface of the trimmed area will be dark grey to black if more can be trimmed but becomes a lighter grey and then white as you near the quick. Any suggestion of pink means you should stop. If the claw bleeds, you have gone too far as your pet will confirm!

Stopping the bleeding of a trimmed claw can be difficult but they all stop eventually. Try smearing some Vaseline on the claw tip or try applying gentle pressure with a tissue or cotton ball.

Manicuring mutts, moggies and man-eating budgies is not the easiest of tasks but your veterinarian can help if you are having hassles.