Keeping Nails Trim?

[Iver]

I'd love tips and tricks to keeping your rats' nails trimmed. Boogers nails' are a little longer then I'd like and just wanted to know what you guys do in this situation. I was thinking of those bird perches, but the current cage set up would let me put one in.

Sorry if there is another topic like this, I must have missed it.

 

[Joanne]

I think the easiest thing is to put something coarse down so that they have to walk over it or climb on it. A concrete brick, etc. is inexpensive and works well.

 

[Iver]

That's smart. My brain is just not working tonight.

Thanks!

 

[Dazzle87]

Definitely a no on the grit covered bird perches-they're too rough on rats feet (and birds for that matter).

I had no luck with lava ledges or bricks, but others have so it is worth a shot! Under the water bottles ensures that they will have to use it.

What I personally do, is I trim their nails. Some rats are easier than others about this, and it can be a pain for one of my girls, but hers start curling under since she can't use her hind end too well so I have to. I just give them an apology treat afterwards and all is forgiven :giggle:.