Day 13: Claws

Well I'm afraid to say that Mouse is most definitely turning into a diva pig. She's just as loud as the rest of the gang now and is pretty brave when food is involved standing on her bowl waiting! I got her out today to have a quick look at her infected ear (which can't be treated with antibiotics until babies are born). It actually looks better on the outside but that doesn't really mean anything because it's probably still pretty manky on the inside!

Here's some pictures of her today with her massive belly:

I also gave her a quick pedicure to keep her comfy.

Claw clipping is an often stressful and dull affair for small animal owners. The animal hates it, you hate doing it because you're scared of making them bleed - not good times. However, it's a necessary evil as those pesky claws grow very quick and can get very uncomfortable. Having all my animals indoors means they don't have an abrasive surface to wear down on so it's a more regular affair than someone who keeps them outdoors with the opportunity to run around. I suppose it's just like dogs, if you walk your dog everyday then the claws wear themselves.

Anyway, so seen as though I sorted out Mouse I had to bite the bullet and do the rest. One piggy (Attica) had escaped last months trimming so her's were fairly long. Here's a before and after pictures..

Before

After

It's a good idea to try and clip claws at an upward angle so the claws are nicely resting on the ground. It's more comfortable for them when they grow. You can use special small animal clippers, just don't cut too close to the blood supply or the 'quick' or they will bleed. You can see the 'quick' in pigs with pale coloured nails like Attica above (you can see the pink bit to avoid) but it's tricker with black nails. If you cut too close your pig will let you know (wheeking or nipping!) and it may start bleeding - don't panic, just apply pressure and it should stop.

There's a great guide to pig feet and claws here. Check out the Polydactyly photos, I only have had a pig with this once - it's very odd!

Remember if you aren't confident doing claw clipping pop to your vet, they usually have a nurse who will do it for you (or show you how) and save you the worry!

Mouse has very sharp, almost cat like claws because she is young. It's a good way to tell how old your piggy is. Thicker, more brittle claws are signs of an older guinea. Again see website above for more info.

I'm off to the supermarket to stock up on veggies - I'm literally being eaten out of house and home!