i've been cutting cat nails for over 30 yrs. now. i use regular toenail clipper and cut only the tip (every suday i do this), i push down on the pad, the nail tip comes out and i turn clippers on side of nail lll like that wil nail in ctr. and clip only the tip. for some reason, i can do it to peoples cats that owners wo't touch, good luck. also...my cat refuses to use a sscratcher, prefers my dining room chairs. even if declawed, they will still scratch, it's inherent. good luck