gunipig nails

Question
Howdy,
I was curious i should worry about my gunipig nails. They seem kinda long. Im not sure how to trim them or even if i should. i was wondering if there was a way to tell that they need to be trimmed. i was also wondering if there was a more natural way that it could be done, like is there something i could put in their house. on more thing if i do have to trim their nails should i use a special tool or can i use what i use on my puppies? please let me know  asap.


have a good weekend,
     matthew hatch

Answer
Hi Matthew

Thanks for your question.

It is important that guineapig nails don't overgrow - if they do they can curl and dig in.  They are easy to cut providing you are careful.  You need a good pair of cutters (you can buy these in the pet shop - they will be able to advise you which ones are best).  You need to steady the guineapig so that they don't move - sometimes it is easier doing this with someone.  When cutting you must not cut too short.  If you go onto You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNAX_k2EGw4 there is a video on how to cut guineapig nails which I think you will find helpful.  

I hope this helps you.

Regards
Sheila