how to trim my rabbits claws

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Why Rabbit and Guinea Pig Grooming Matters More Than You Think

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When most people think about pet grooming, they picture pampered poodles and fluffy cockapoos – but rabbit and guinea pig grooming is just as important, if not more so.

These little pets might be low to the ground and tucked away in hutches, but they still need regular help staying clean, comfortable, and healthy. Left ungroomed, both rabbits and guinea pigs can develop serious matting, painful skin issues, and even struggle with movement or hygiene.

Enquire about nail trimming
Pet sitter in Sevenoaks Lucy guinea pig Onyx
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cutting claws nails of guinea pig with nail clipper

At Little Critter Care, I specialise in gentle, stress-free rabbit and guinea pig grooming that’s tailored to their unique needs.  I’m based in Deal, Kent but teach owners and professionals worldwide. Whether it’s a basic brush-out, a tidy trim, or a nail clip, grooming sessions can prevent common issues like:

  • Mats around the rear (especially in long-haired breeds)

  • Overgrown nails that can twist toes or catch on bedding

  • Sores under the fur that often go unnoticed

  • A build-up of hair that can be accidentally ingested

Regular rabbit and guinea pig grooming isn’t just about appearances – it’s an essential part of their welfare. For elderly pets or those with mobility issues, grooming is even more important. It helps them feel better in their bodies and prevents discomfort that they often hide.

If you’re unsure what kind of grooming your rabbit or guinea pig needs, feel free to ask – I’m always happy to advise. You can also find more details about what’s included in a session on my Grooming page.

Want to know all about Guinea Pigs? Get my Guidebook

Remember:
A clean, well-groomed small pet is a happy one. Don’t overlook the importance of rabbit and guinea pig grooming – your little fluffballs will thank you for it.

 

Find out more about rabbit and guinea pig grooming
Contact to schedule a mobile nail trim in Deal, Kent or ask for advice
trimming rabbit nails

Rabbit and Guinea Pig Grooming: Mybusters Edition

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There’s a lot of confusion when it comes to rabbit and guinea pig grooming – and trust me, I’ve heard it all. Even well-meaning owners (and sometimes professionals!) often get conflicting advice. So let’s break down some of the most common myths I hear and set the record straight.

 

Myth 1: “If they run on concrete, their nails will wear down naturally.”

In theory? Sure, maybe a little. In practice? Not enough to skip trims. I visit rabbits and guinea pigs on all kinds of surfaces — concrete, carpet, grass, fleece — and honestly, I rarely see any major difference in nail length.
Nail trimming is still essential, no matter what floor they live on.

Enquire about nail trimming
Pet sitter in Sevenoaks Lucy guinea pig Onyx
cutting claws nails of guinea pig with nail clipper
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Myth 2: “They don’t need grooming.”

Some people are surprised to hear that rabbit and guinea pig grooming is even a thing. I’ve even had clients say their vet told them grooming isn’t needed! But in truth, all rabbits and guinea pigs need at least:

  • Regular nail trims

  • Occasional brushing, especially in moulting seasons

  • And careful coat checks for mats or debris

Just because it’s not a full-on poodle blow-dry doesn’t mean grooming isn’t important.

 

Myth 3: “They should be bathed regularly, like dogs.”

Nope! This one’s actually dangerous. Rabbits should never be given a full body bath – it can cause shock, hypothermia, and even serious skin issues. It is much safer to bath guinea pigs and they can even benefit from it, but care needs to be made to make sure they are fully dried and don’t become ill from the cold.

So yes, this myth actually does us a favour by reminding us that rabbit and guinea pig grooming is not the same as dog grooming.
But it doesn’t mean no grooming – it just means a different kind of grooming.

Want to know all about Guinea Pigs? Get my Guidebook

Myth 4: “They’ll groom each other, so I don’t need to.”

Guinea pigs? Not so much. They usually mind their own business.
Rabbits? Yes, they do groom one another – but that can actually be risky. If they ingest too much fur (especially during moulting), it can lead to dangerous gut blockages.
So while it’s sweet to see them grooming each other, they still need your help.

 

black guinea pig nails before and after
Find out more about rabbit and guinea pig grooming

Myth 5: “If they’re short-haired, brushing isn’t needed.”

Actually, even short-haired rabbits and guinea pigs benefit from brushing – particularly when they’re shedding or moulting. Brushing helps remove loose fur before it can be ingested, and gives you a chance to check for sore spots, parasites, or signs of illness.
Every coat type benefits from a bit of TLC.

 

Myth 6: “They’re too nervous to travel, so I’ll just skip the nail trim.”

This is one I hear a lot, and I get it – small pets can be sensitive to travel. But skipping grooming altogether can lead to overgrown nails, posture problems, and even injuries.
Fortunately, many groomers (like me!) offer mobile rabbit and guinea pig grooming, so you don’t even have to leave the house.
And if travel is needed, there are lots of ways to make it stress-free – I’ll be sharing tips on that in an upcoming blog. 

If you want to keep up to date with regular info then check out my freebies and you’ll get access to regular updates.

 

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The truth?

Rabbit and guinea pig grooming is a vital part of keeping your pets healthy, happy, and comfortable. It’s not about fancy bows and bubbles – it’s about prevention, welfare, and spotting issues before they become problems.

If you’d like to learn more or book a gentle grooming session, you can check out what I offer here.

Contact to schedule a mobile nail trim in Deal, Kent or ask for advice