Manually remove cat claw sheaths?

mkerrigan

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My 18-year-old kitty has very overgrown claws, almost disc-shaped claws. It looks like he's not shedding his claw sheaths anymore. He doesn't have many teeth left but I see him biting at them trying to groom them. They get very dirty also from the litter box! Ewww!!!

Is there a way I can manually remove these sheaths for him? I did clip them but can see that they are very thick and probably need shedding. He no longer uses his scratching post either.
 

strange_wings

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They should come off or loose when you trim the claws. Occasionally I have to pull some loosened ones off with when I'm trimming my cats claws. But if they're not loosening you may have to consult your vet. You wouldn't want to accidentally split a claw to the quick and leave it open to infection.
 

yosemite

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I agree - have his claws checked out by a vet. He/she may in turn recommend a groomer but definitely get the claws checked by a professional.
 
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