[NicoleM]

I'm taking my hedgehog in to the vet today to get his toenails trimmed. I just cannot seem to do it myself...he's just so wiggly, and I just don't want to risk cutting a nail too short or hurting him. I did try to file his nails a little, and he tolerated that a little. I'm wondering if it's possible to adhere some fine grain emery board type material to just a small section of his wheel. I know I've seen in beauty supply places they sell nail files that you can peel off the filing surface part of it (but I don't remember how thin the filing surface is though). I figure it would have to be pretty flush with the wheel so his nails/feet wouldn't catch on it, and I wouldn't want to do the entire wheel because that would be too rough on the little guys feet. I looked and couldn't find any threads about this already...wondering if anyone has tried this before.

 

[Immortalia]

Not a good idea at all.

Read this thread: http://www.hedgehogcentral.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2236&st=0&sk=t&sd=a&hilit=nail+sanding

 

[sillybowtie]

I try to cut a few nails a night. I also roll him out of his bag and quickly grab a foot and start cutting. By the time he realize what I am doing I am usually done.

 

[hedgielover]

I usually cut Quigley's nails while I give him a foot bath. He doesn't like the water but can't roll up so it gives me a fighting chance. It does take some practice but you shouldn't be afraid to try. Everyone will catch the quick every now and then (even with the most cooperative hedgehogs). Keep a dish of flour beside you while you trim them and dip his foot in it if you cut the nail too short. Then stop the nail trim and wait a few days for the next one.

EDIT: one more thing, I find it easier to trim the nails on his back feet, they are usually longer and it is easier to get a hold of the leg. Don't know if anyone else has this experience. But for trimming the first time I would definitely recommend starting with the back feet until you get the hang of it.