|
Nails
Sept 4, 2010 16:56:00 GMT
Post by bunchesofjoy on Sept 4, 2010 16:56:00 GMT
I got my little girl from craigslist. She was obviously neglected. Her nails were growing into each other and into her paws. The worst paw has black nails. I was told the quick was probably so far in that I would have to clip a lot, but only a little at a time. I've been doing that, but I've only made a little progress.
I started calling vets. Some suggested surgery, which scares me (anesthesia and small animals). Some suggested vet visits to see what to do. Some suggested regular clippings by me or the local pet store.
My mom asked if she looked like she was in pain. I told her that as a rodent, she'll try to hide pain. Right? I don't want her to be in pain... what should I do?
|
|
|
Nails
Sept 7, 2010 11:19:36 GMT
Post by Orlaith on Sept 7, 2010 11:19:36 GMT
I think the clip small amounts but often is the right way to go. As you mentioned, pigs have a blood vessel inside their nails called a "quick", and when nails aren't regularly clipped, it extends all the way down to the tip of the nail. When you clip a little bit off, the quick starts to recede, so by taking only a little but doing it more often, the quick will keep going back and you can make the nails shorter and shorter.
Also, black nails can be tricky because you can't see the quick, but if you use the other paws as a guide and just keep taking small amounts, you'll get there eventually.
If the nails are digging into the flesh of the paw though, you may need to take your pig to a vet as infection can set in and this could be serious. If the nails only look twisted to the side then don't worry, that happens a lot of pigs that are well cared for and it's not painful for them.
Is your pig walking okay? Do you have any pictures of the paws?
While you're clipping the nails, keep some flour or ground coffee or styptic powder nearby in case you do quick your pig by mistake. It happens everyone once in a while, it's not serious and it'll only last a little while. Dip the bleeding nail in the flour or powder and that will help to stop the bleeding. Your piggy might yelp but she'll get over it, don't worry! Give lots of love and a yummy treat and she'll forget all about it.
|
|
|
Nails
Sept 7, 2010 23:46:36 GMT
Post by bunchesofjoy on Sept 7, 2010 23:46:36 GMT
Thanks.
It's not digging into the flesh.
I was just worried it was painful anyway.
|
|
|
Nails
Sept 8, 2010 11:24:27 GMT
Post by Orlaith on Sept 8, 2010 11:24:27 GMT
So long as it's not digging into the skin then you should be fine going as you're going. My pigs get their nails done monthly and they still get curly and twisted as they get longer but they aren't painful.
|
|