Ferrets nails grow very
fast and it can be difficult to keep them at appropriate length. But trimming
your ferrets nails often can help keep their feet healthy by preventing the
blood-line from growing too long.
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Get The Right Nail Clippers: Many people will suggest using human baby clippers. We disagree. For a more accurate cut, we suggest using small-pet clippers which can be found for under $3.00 at most pet stores. We've listed a pair below that you can get on Amazon for $2.99.
Judge Appropriate Length: Ferrets have clear nails that allow you to see through them. Look for a red, black, or purple-ish line that is going through the center of the nail. This is the blood line. If nicked, it will bleed and cause pain to your ferret. Although it's not fatal, it will hurt your ferret and you should try to avoid cutting it. Rather, cut slightly before the line, leaving enough space for the nail to file down as your ferret walks on it's newly clipped nails.
Hold Your Ferret: You can either have someone else hold your ferret still for you, or you can scruff your ferret by grabbing the skin on the back of it's neck. Some ferrets will also allow you to clip their nails without scruffing. In which case you can hold each individual foot as you clip.
Clip The Nail: Place the clippers around the nail, and apply pressure until the nail is cut. With small-pet clippers the cut should happen very smoothly and will leave no cracks or chips in the nail.
What to do if you clip too far: If you've clipped too far and your ferrets nail begins to bleed, immediately place a cover on the nail. If you have gauze pads- use them, as they tend to not stick to the wound. If you do not, you can use paper towels or a wash cloth. Apply light pressure to the cut for 5 to 10 minutes. If the nail has not quit bleeding, monitor it for another 15 minutes. Let your ferret rest for a day before allowing them to play too vigorously on their feet. This will allow the cut to heal enough for them to be active again.
Clip again in 3 to 4 weeks.
