You can keep most cats still with a clip on the strap. This term is called PIBI or Pinch-Induced Behavioral Inhibition (inhibition of behavior by pinching) and the procedure is safe and comfortable for most cats. This method will be more successful especially if the cat already knows you. Use this procedure only when necessary, not for fun.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Testing the Cat
Step 1. Use this procedure only when necessary
In one study, 30 of 31 cats reacted positively and none showed any signs of pain or fear. Still, cats may not like it. Many veterinarians find this "tweezing" technique old-fashioned and too painful for everyday use. Others have argued that this technique is a gentler option, but this opinion is controversial.
Use this technique when you are trimming your cat's nails or giving him medication
Step 2. Open the cat collar
The cat's neck must be completely free. If you don't open the collar, it could strangle or pinch the cat's neck.
Step 3. Locate the cat's nape
Cats have a loose fold of skin on the back of the neck. If the skin on the cat's nape feels very small and doesn't "twist" easily, be careful. Don't squeeze it too hard.
Step 4. Tweak the nape of the neck and watch the cat react
Tighten the nape of the neck firmly and watch how the cat reacts. If the cat seems relaxed, it will likely respond favorably to the next step: silence. If the cat struggles or meows, remove the tug and try other tactics to silence it, such as bandaging the cat.
- If the cat is neither relaxed nor rebellious, notice if the pupils are dilated, are the ears spinning, or are they panting for breath? All three are signs that the cat is afraid.
- Holding the cat closer to the ear will make it easier for you to control the cat's head.
Part 2 of 2: Keeping the Cat Silent
Step 1. Place the clamp on the skin of the cat's nape
If your cat seems relaxed when you tug on the skin on the nape of the neck, then the pincers will have the same effect. In one study, a 5 cm wide binding clip was the best choice. Place the clip on the nape of the neck, just below the ear.
You can also use paper clips or clothespins, but choose a clip that's not too tight so your cat won't hurt it. A smaller or too strong clip will make tugging painful, but your cat will react differently
Step 2. Gently push the cat aside
A relaxed cat will sit up alone. Otherwise, a gentle push on the hind paws will make the cat sit up. A fully relaxed cat will place its paws near its face and/or curl up with its tail straight down or between its paws.
If the cat remains standing and its tail is placed between its legs, it is a sign that it is frightened and uncomfortable
Step 3. Clip additional clips if necessary
Some cats may not relax completely, but neither will they show any signs of fear or discomfort. If this happens, clip an additional clip or two along the skin of the nape of the neck, parallel to the spine. Stop or open the clip if the cat struggles, meows, or gasps.
Some cats respond to clips being clipped anywhere along the skin over the spine, across their backs. However, the spot has less effect than the neck
Step 4. Open the clip after a few minutes
There are no expert recommendations on how long the clips can be left on. The clips won't damage the cat's skin, but the cat will get irritated if it's held tight for too long. Perform clamping in a short time and make this a positive experience to facilitate the application of this procedure in the future if needed.
Tips
- Several companies sell clips marketed under the name Clipnosis clips for cats. It is not yet clear what the difference between this clip and the regular clip is. A number of shoppers have complained that the Clipnosis clip is stronger than a regular clip and makes some cats painful.
- Wash your hands with plain water or non-perfumed soap before handling the cat. Cats can react to the smell of perfume, lotion, or other animal odors.
Warning
- If the cat becomes aggressive, stop the clamping immediately.
- Never lift a cat just by tugging at the nape of the neck. If you need to move it, support the cat's back or paws with your hands.
