https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/nail-biting-cats
Abnormal Nail Chewing and What Causes It
There are situations, however, when nail biting in cats falls into the “abnormal” category. This chewing behavior is excessive and obsessive, and very, very noticeable, according to Dr. Nicolas Dodman, a pet behavior expert, professor emeritus at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, and author of The Cat Who Cried for Help.
When it comes to abnormal chewing behavior, it usually comes down to one of two root causes: an injury or infection is causing the cat to pick at her paw, or the cat is suffering from anxiety.
“Like many of the people who compulsively chew their nails, excessive nail chewing behaviors in cats are often related to anxiety,” Dodman says. Anxiety in cats can have many different causes, such as animals in the house, a dislike of being alone, and challenges in the cat’s environment. “This could even be something as simple as a squirrel that likes to sit outside your window and taunt your cat,” Dodman says. “The cat becomes frustrated because he can’t do anything about it.”
To help lessen anxiety, he recommends that owners ensure that their cats have a reliable routine and are getting enough exercise. If these steps fail to improve a cat’s anxiety, owners can also try mood-stabilizing medications. “It may take a couple of months before you start to see improvement with medication, but it should help even out the cat’s anxiety and help him feel more calm,” Dodman explains.
Then there are infections and injuries. Bacterial or yeast infections may cause a cat to pick at his paws, and, by extension, his nails. These infections can be difficult to prevent, especially in animals who are genetically prone to them. “Some cats, like Persians, are just genetically predisposed to skin problems,” Siracusa notes. Infections can also be the result of contact with chemicals that have an irritating affect on the paws. “Those little soft pads are exposed to a lot,” he says. Additionally, if an owner cuts a cat’s nails too short, it may lead to infections because the blood vessels in the claws are no longer protected.
Know Your Cat
In and of itself, nail chewing in cats is not a cause for concern. If it is accompanied by an injury, or starts becoming much more frequent, then it’s time to take your cat to the vet. “You have to know your cat,” Dodman says. “When a new behavior manifests—especially an obsessive one—it is always a good idea to go to the vet for a checkup.”