Reptile & Amphibian Forums

is there any good way to trim a tegu's sharp nails? i have a colombian and he doesnt scratch too much but his claws are so sharp they cut me every time i pick him up.

Anything with claws can have them trimmed. How big is he? Mine scratches also and I find that regular toenail or fingernail clippers work just fine. I would suggest getting someone to help either hold or trim. Tegus, as all animals with nails, have quicks which is the nail bed. You dont want to cut into this or he will bleed and not just a few drops. Not sure if you knew any of this but more info cant hurt right? If he is a big guy then dog toenail clippers will come in handy as well, but I dont recommend the guillotine(sp?) kind. Good luck, you'll need it if hes a jumpy guy!
-Beth

Anubis is about 2 and a half feet long, thanks for the help, ill try trimming the claws this weekend when i give him his bath. hopefully hell be calm enough then for it to work, thanks again!

Hey no prob good luck to you. I hope all goes well.
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Beau W.

I have also found with mine since I was leary about cutting the quick that a regular emery board for your fingernails worked well to take the edge off sharp nails and I did not have to worry about cutting too much. Just another suggestion. I file my tegus claws while they are in the tub soaking since that is when they are the least active just lounging and all. Good luck.

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Beau W.

mine wear them down while digging. but i used to just get a file and brush it on the end and just get the sharp part. worked well for me.