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Frequently Asked Questions Volume 8,974

Is there anything that can be done about the scratches/talons!!? (click link for more talon closeups)

The short answer: in the winters you can use cut sleeves* or layers up your clothes but if you can’t bear doing that the in the summer? Then, basically no: there’s not really anything that can safely be done in terms of squirrels & altering their claws. (*Example of cut sleeves in link post)

Most do not condone trimming, grinding, or filing their nails as a viable solution because the claw tips are what they use to have a secure grip for running & climbing.

The unfortunate truth is that directly after any alternation of the claws a squirrel would be at seriously increases risks of a fall that could lead to the animal becoming injured…

Wildlife Sanctuaries & Rehabbers unfortunately see cases of back injuries (some of which were so severe they caused paralysis or resulted in euthanasia) as a direct result of nail alternations. It may not seem like a big deal to an inexperienced caregiver; but realistically directly after any changes to their claws a squirrel could go to run a route it’s done at least a million times; but- because of the loss of its nail tip’s sharp end- loose it’s grip on the top of a curtain rod so he or she ultimately ends up hitting something vital (like their spinal cord or head) on the window sill below that curtain…

Also, the quick of the claw is only millimeters from the tip of the talon so injury with the potential for infection is likely even with filing/grinding…

Generally only dig boxes are recommended by most; but the idea to line skateboarding tape on the cat exercise wheels or frequently trafficked area is actually a viable option too (but you have to stick with the level of sand paper that is marketed as skateboard tape usually because something with too harsh of a grit can actually damage the tender part of the Paws).

It’s important to remember when you choose to be the custodian of another that their physical safety should always be paramount to your comfort so altering our lifestyle to be able to properly care for the squirrels will always be the only choice as far as I Found A Squirrel Wildlife Rescue & Rehab is concerned..

This is YET ANOTHER of the countless reasons that the “BEST ADVICE” will always be to contact an experienced wildlife rehabber if you find an orphaned or injured animal!! Even if you happen to be the one out of 1,000 that manages to feed something you found without causing aspiration; most do not realize wildlife, like a squirrel, would actually be at risk by dealing with scratches the way most would for their dog’s & just trimming the claws…

Follow us at r/iFoundaSquirrel for all your squirrel-related interests or if you have a question! Or at r/WildlifeRehabberHumor if you’re an experienced rehabber in need of a laugh!