I have posted this question as advice for others. I used to have my guinea pigs' claws trimmed at the vets some years ago, but I have since found an easier way, and my youngest 'pig who is at least four years old has never needed his claws trimmed.
1 Answer
My solution to this problem was to put a sandstone tile in the cage. every time the guinea pigs go to their food bowl they shorten their nails just a little, here is the layout:
and here are their feet, as you can see they are quite healthy:
The guinea pigs' pads prevent the claws from getting too short, and the constant wearing down stops them getting too long.
Good points:
No trimming claws.
Less stress for your pets.
Bad points:
Stone is heavy to move when cleaning the cage.
Animal claws are naturally sharp.
Because you don't need to groom their claws, 'pigs can become less social.