How to clip nails in hedgehogs and tenrecs

Safe techniques, gentle handling, and how to clip nails without bleeding

Nail trimming is one of the most basic yet often neglected parts of caring for exotic mammals like African pygmy hedgehogs and lesser hedgehog tenrecs. In the wild, these animals naturally wear down their claws through digging, climbing, and moving across varied terrain. In captivity, however, soft bedding, limited movement, and smooth enclosure surfaces can result in overgrown nails, and the consequences are more serious than many owners realize. So we’re here to give you more information on how to safely clip nails on a hedgehog or tenrec.

Long nails can cause pain, imbalance, and even injury. They may curl into the footpad, break or tear during walking, or interfere with how the animal distributes weight on its limbs. In older animals or those with mobility issues, long claws can contribute to joint strain and muscle fatigue. That’s why regular nail checks, and safe, calm trimming, are essential to keeping your hedgehog or tenrec healthy.

Understanding nail structure

Before trimming nails, it’s helpful to understand their anatomy. Both hedgehogs and tenrecs have keratinous claws that grow from the ends of their digits, much like other mammals. Each claw contains a quick, the inner, living part of the nail that contains nerves and blood vessels. Cutting into the quick is painful and causes bleeding, which is why careful technique is so important.

In animals with pale or translucent nails, you can usually see the quick as a slightly darker pinkish core. In animals with darker nails, the quick may be invisible — so conservative trimming is essential.

Tenrecs tend to have thinner and more delicate claws than hedgehogs, and their feet are more sensitive. They also have opposable inner toes on the hind feet, which can make gripping easier, but trimming trickier.

When and how often to trim

There is no universal schedule for nail trimming. Some individuals wear their nails down naturally through activity, running on a rough-surfaced wheel, digging in soil, or walking on textured surfaces. Others need trimming every few weeks.

What matters is observation. If you see nails curling sideways or into the pad, clicking against the floor, or interfering with the animal’s gait, it’s time. Also check for any broken, jagged, or split nails, these can catch on bedding or fleece and cause injury.

Preparing for the trim

Nail trimming doesn’t have to be stressful, but it requires calm, patience, and preparation. Many hedgehogs and tenrecs are not immediately cooperative, especially if they haven’t been handled much. Building trust through gentle daily interaction goes a long way.

It helps to choose a time when the animal is already somewhat relaxed, such as after a bath, cuddle session, or brief exploration. Avoid trying to clip nails during a stressful event or when the animal is hungry or agitated.

You’ll need:

• A small, sharp pair of nail clippers, preferably for cats or human cuticles
• A soft towel for wrapping or stabilizing the animal
• A styptic powder or pencil (in case of accidental bleeding)
• Good lighting and ideally a second pair of hands, especially when learning

The process: Techniques and tips

Most hedgehogs strongly dislike having their feet touched, and many will curl up in protest. Tenrecs may flinch or pull their limbs away, not out of aggression, but due to sensitivity. The key is to work slowly and gently, using whatever method suits your animal best.

Some owners prefer to trim nails during a foot soak or bath, when the animal is calm and the nails are softer. Others use a burrito wrap, gently wrapping the animal in a towel and exposing one limb at a time. Some experienced keepers can trim nails during cuddle time, without restraint, simply by lifting each foot as the animal rests on their lap.

If the animal struggles, pause and try again later rather than forcing it. One foot per session is perfectly acceptable. You are not in a race.

Only trim the tip of the nail, a few millimeters at most. Cutting too deep is painful and traumatic. It’s better to trim a little more frequently than to overdo it and cause bleeding.

What if you cut too far?

Even skilled caretakers occasionally nick the quick. If this happens, apply styptic powder, cornstarch, or a dab of flour to stop the bleeding. Hold gentle pressure and stay calm, the animal will often recover quickly if you remain composed.

Avoid letting the animal walk on dirty bedding until the nail heals, and monitor for signs of infection if the wound was deep.

If your animal becomes extremely distressed after a trimming mishap, take a break from nail work and focus on rebuilding trust. A positive environment makes all the difference next time.

Alternative options for maintenance

For hedgehogs, using a textured wheel surface (such as sandpaper-covered sections, used sparingly and with supervision) can help naturally file the nails. However, this should never replace manual trimming entirely, especially for nails that grow sideways or too fast.

For tenrecs, diggable substrates like loose soil or coconut fiber can help keep the nails in better shape, particularly if the animal enjoys scratching and burrowing.

Still, there is no substitute for regular human inspection and occasional trimming. Wild animals have nature to do the maintenance, your pet depends on you.

Final thoughts

Nail trimming is not just a chore, it’s an opportunity to check in with your animal. By examining each toe, you can catch early signs of injury, infection, or inflammation. You get to learn how your animal reacts to touch, where it’s comfortable, and where it needs reassurance.

Take your time. Be gentle. And remember that it’s okay if it doesn’t go perfectly the first time, or even the fifth. Over time, many animals become more tolerant or even indifferent to nail care, especially if it’s paired with treats, warmth, and calm voices.

In the end, nail trimming is not about discipline, it’s about dignity and care. And that’s something both hedgehogs and tenrecs deserve.