I just take off the hooks.
A vet-tech who trims my pigeons’ toes told me that taking off just the hook for awhile would cause the quick to recede, and I’d have an easier time in the future (Squeak bled a lot the first time he was cut).
I’m not sure if it’s true for cats.
-JT
Just be careful. It’s the sharp tip that gets a grip into wood. If it’s dull the cat will soon lose interest in the wood.