Have you ever seen your cat bite your fingernails? If so, you’re far from alone. A cat biting a nail is not an uncommon occurrence.
In fact, it’s common enough that veterinarians have a name for it: onychophagia.
Cat biting nails is not, however, normal. In fact, if your cat is biting your nails, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Let’s take a closer look.
Why Does My Cat Bite My Nails?
Cats love to play, but sometimes that play can get a little out of hand. If your cat is biting your nails, it may be a sign of boredom or stress.
It could also be a sign that your cat is trying to tell you something. If your cat is biting your fingers, it’s important to figure out why.
Cats may groom you by biting (especially in sensitive areas), licking, chewing, and scratching.
Cats regularly groom themselves by licking/chewing their fur.
When kittens are young, they may bite (and chew) on you if they feel threatened. Often, kittens will bite or chew on their mother’s paws or muzzle. Sometimes, a cat will bite out of fear.
For example, if a cat feels trapped, it may bite out of fear. Sometimes, cats will bite if they feel threatened.
It is a terrific indication that you and your cat are bonding when you and your cat spend time together.
How To Stop Cat From Biting Your Nails
Use a Chew Toy
If your cat is biting your nails, it may be time to introduce a new toy.
Toys aren’t just for cats to play with; they’re also a great way to redirect your cat’s attention.
If your cat bites your nails when you’re not looking, give them a toy to play with instead.
This will give your cat something else to do, and it’ll stop your cat from biting your nails.
Divert the Cat’s Attention
If your cat is biting your nails, divert their attention. When your cat is biting your nails, try distracting them.
Give your cat a toy to play with, play with your cat, or give them a new treat.
When a cat begins to do something like chew, they’ll often repeat it. Giving them something else to do will stop them from biting your nails.
By diverting your cat’s attention, it’ll stop your cat from biting your nails.
Never Startle the Cat
If your cat is biting your nails, never startle them.
Cats bite when they’re scared, so it’s important to never startle them. If you hear your cat biting your nails, don’t scare them.
You never want to be violent (even if you’re mad at them), so try not to startle them. If they’re scared, they’ll likely bite you.
It’s important to find out why your cat is biting your nails
Once you know why, you can distract them. By distracting them, it’ll stop your cat from biting your nails.
Finally, this is only going to work if it’s a temporary solution.
Also Read: Why Do Cats Knead My Stomach?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Does My Cat Nibble My Fingers When I Pet Him?
Cats love to be pet, but sometimes cats get a little carried away.
If your cat is nibbling your fingers, it may be a sign of affection. If your cat nibbles your fingers when you pet them, it could just be their way of showing affection.
If your cat nibbles your fingers, try petting them a different way. This will stop your cat from nibbling your fingers.
Why Do Cats Try to Pull Their Claws Out?
If your cat is pulling their claws out, it could be a sign of anxiety.
If your cat pulls their claws out, try distracting them. Give them a toy to play with, play with your cat, or give them a new treat.
By diverting your cat’s attention, it’ll stop your cat from pulling their claws out.
Why Does My Cat Bite My Fingers?
If your cat is biting your fingers, it could be a sign of stress.
If your cat bites your fingers, try distracting them. Give them a toy to play with, play with your cat, or give them a new treat.
By diverting your cat’s attention, it’ll stop your cat from biting your fingers.
Final Words
Cats bite when they’re scared, so it’s important to never startle them. If you hear your cat biting your nails, don’t scare them. Instead, distract them. This will stop your cat from biting your nails.