If your pet’s nails are long, when he stands or walks, the nails hit the floor making pushing the upper part of the nail back into the nail bed, in turn causing discomfort and pain, as well as pressure on the toe joint. Imagine wearing shoes two sizes too small all day long, ouch! The additional pressure can make his paws become extra sensitive to touch. If this goes on for a while, your pet’s paws will have a more flattened appearance. This is a compromise in how your pet stands, which affects weight distribution thus changes his natural alignment and posture. The way your pet walks and moves is altered resulting in more discomfort and posture adjustments. In addition, your pet is less steady on their feet which can cause more falls or injuries.
Long nails can also get caught/stuck on rugs and fabrics and they can tear or break leading to a need for veterinary intervention. Long nails are more apt to scratch you, your floors and your furniture. In extreme cases, nails can grow long enough to curve around and grow back into the paw pad causing pain and infection. Also be aware, if your pet has furry feet, it can hide how long nails truly are.
Finally, It is important to note that a pet who is uncomfortable or in pain, may become more anxious or irritable. Physical conditions affect behavior and thus overall wellness. For you pets best life, he will need to have lifelong nail care so why not invest to make this process easier and less stressful for everyone involved?