Why Do Cats Like Nail Files? 4 Vet-Verified Theories & Possible Reasons

It isn’t odd for cats to rub against nail files or lick them and there are several reasons why this may occur. The most likely reason is that they enjoy consuming the left-over nail dust on the file. Although there are other reasons, none are particularly worrisome, so you don’t have to worry about your cat getting too close to your nail file.

Here are some reasons why your cat may like nail files.

The 4 Reasons Why Cats Like Nail Files

1. Minerals

When you file your nails, you may unwittingly leave several minerals on the nail file. Nails are made of the protein keratin and nail dust can contain magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, calcium, and iron. Cats may be deficient in these items or just like the taste. The felines may lick the nail files to consume these nutrients and minerals.

Of course, we don’t know if this is true or not. We can’t ask the cats and no studies have been done on this topic. However, it is one of the most popular theories.

Cats fed commercially available complete and balanced diets may rarely need extra minerals due to underlying health conditions. However, many cats are naturally attracted to them.

2. It Feels Good

The scratchy surface of the nail file may feel good on your cat’s face or tongue. They may rub up against the nail file for this reason. The nail file has a surface similar to a cat’s tongue. Therefore, it’s likely that cats like how it feels.

That said, we can’t know for sure about this reason either. It’s a strong possibility, but we can’t exactly just ask our cats.

Cats are intriguing animals who sometimes have odd interests and indulge in unusual behavior. Understanding them might be tough but providing a toy that fosters their instinctual needs and curiosities is simple.The Hepper Hi-Lo Cat Scratcher encourages playtime and offers a cat-appropriate place to scratch. 

It’s unique 3-position design and cardboard scratch pad allow your cat to explore different levels, improves their health, satisfies natural feline impulses, and deters your cat from delving into places they should not. Show your cat how much you love and appreciate their quirks by gifting them the Hepper Hi-Lo Cat Scratcher.

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3. Scent Marking and Smell Curiosity

Cats have scent glands in their cheeks to mark their territory. That’s why cats often rub against things with their face, marking their territory. Your feline may need to mark their territory on the nail file. In this way, they may rub up against the nail filer for a time.

However, if this is the case, the cat will probably rub up against everything else, too (including you!)

Likewise, your cat might simply be attracted to the smells you left behind on the nail file.

If you have questions about scent marking, the health of your cat, or their behavior, a consultation with a vet can provide all the answers.

4. Texture

Cats are naturally curious and often use their mouths and paws to explore their environment. The coarse texture of a nail file may feel satisfying for them to rub their teeth or claws against, possibly resembling the sensation of sharpening their claws on tree bark or a scratching post.

Scratching is a need for cats and they have developed an attraction to rough textures because they must scratch to keep their nails filed down, and it’s vital for their health. This is why cats scratch on furniture and carpets. It is instinctual.

Our recommendation

Hepper Cat Nail Clipper Kit

• Complete Set - These cat nail clippers include both a large and small pair, meaning it works well as a kitten claw trimmer when they're a small kitty, and then before you know it, as a cat nail cutter
• Razor Sharp Stainless Steel - The most comfortable cat nail clippers for indoor cats provide a fast and clean cut. And for rough residuals remaining, the free cat nail file included can smooth it all.
• Safety First - With a safety nail guard and locking spring, you can make sure every grooming cut is stress free for you, and pain free for your purry pal

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Stopping your cat from scratching can be tricky, but keeping their nails trimmed can help. Hepper's Cat Nail Clipper Set can make it easier, with sharp stainless steel blades for precision clipping and ergonomic, non-slip handles. The built-in safety guard and locking switch will keep you and your cat safe, and the two different sizes of clippers will allow you to handle any size or angle of nails. 

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Conclusion

Cats often like nail files because of the left-over nail dust on the file. However, they may like the nail file for many other reasons, too. For instance, it may simply feel good on their skin. Alternatively, they could be attached to your smell on it or try to leave theirs behind. Typically, there isn’t a problem with your cat liking the nail file. In most cases, there isn’t anything you need to be concerned with. However, cats that insistently lick the nail filer may have mineral deficiencies that need to be addressed by a vet.

Featured Image Credit: Lapina, Shutterstock