Siamese licking / claw trimming advice

Question
I have a 3 year old Siamese that I adopted a few months ago. She seems to be very comfortable here, eats / sleeps well, and we get along great. The only strange thing is that she likes to lick things, like the shower curtain, furniture, window screens, etc... I did some investigating online and read that this might be a behavioral disorder -- except in Siamese cats. (!) Is this typical of Siamese in particular? I've had a few, but never encountered this before.

Also, any suggestions on trimming her claws? I've done this for several cats, but this one hisses and swipes at me. I've tried approaching her when she's sleeping / mellow, but no luck. I've taken her to have them done professionally, but getting her into the carrier and the way she freaks out is a pain too.

Thanks for any advice!
Aimee

Answer
Hi Aimee!

I have never heard of a cat licking so much.... lol. No, I don't think it's a Siamese trait.  It does sound like some kind of behavioural disorder as you stated.  Since you adopted her (good for you!), you probably don't know her history.  There is no telling what kind of trauma she may have had.  I wouldn't punish her for doing it, it would do more harm than good.   As far as nail trimming goes, you will probably always have a problem with her because she wasn't taught at an early age.  My Siamese was taught when I first got him , and he doesn't mind at all.  The only thing I can tell you is to have someone help you and wrap her up snugly in a big towel. Pull one paw out at a time.  This can be quite tricky, as cats seem to be able to get out of anything you try to put them in.  If you wrap her securely, you should be able to do it, but you will need to have help.

God Bless,
Becky