Pet cats have razor-sharp claws just like their large brawny cousins in the wild. However, our pampered kitties do not need sharp claws since they don’t hunt for food – unless you want to train your cat to open a can of wet cat food.
Even if your cat is an angel, he can prove to be quite a nuisance in your home if he has long sharp claws. Your whiskered pal might unintentionally tear curtains, snag upholstery, or create an “Obra Maestra” on your wallpapered walls and hardwood floors. Worse, these claws might also hurt you or your kids and thus, making cuddle sessions rather unpleasant.
Therefore, it is wise to clip your cat’s claws regularly using the best cat nail grinder.
What’s a Cat Nail Grinder?
Are you afraid to use regular nail clippers for trimming your cat’s claws? There is no better way to clip your cat’s claws than using an electric nail grinder for cats. As the name suggests, this nifty device has a sturdy handle and a tiny sanding drum. It’s like a nail file with 100x more speed!
10 Best Cat Nail Grinders
We rounded up 10 of the best cat nail grinders on the market. These models are ranked based on their features and consumer ratings. Rest assured, you can find a model that will align with your budget.
Dremel 7300-PT 4.8V Pet Nail Grooming Tool
Dremel is one of the most reputable American brands primarily known for its rotary tools, but they also make the best cat nail grinder – the Dremel 7300-PT. At the time of writing, this unit has garnered 5,249 customer reviews and a 4.3-star rating.
The 7300-PT runs on 4.8 volts and uses a 60-grit sanding drum, giving you the power to get rid of the toughest and sharpest cat claws. It features an ergonomic design, which feels solid in the hand. Rest assured, you could get a good amount of usage out of this product because its body is made of heavy-duty high-density plastic.
Adding to that, the 7300-PT is user-friendly. It comes with two rotation speeds – 6,500 RPM and 13,000 RPM. You can easily shift between speeds, so you can trim your cat’s claws most safely and effectively. This nifty device works relatively quietly even when used at a high-speed setting. Hence, it won’t spook out an anxious cat.
Moreover, the 7300-PT comes with a rechargeable battery pack that only takes three hours to charge and an LED light to indicate correct charging. The manufacturer thoughtfully included clear instructions to make assembly spot-on for everyone as well.
This grooming tool can also be used for other sanding applications. It comes with a 407 sanding drum and a 408 sanding band to provide clean finishes.
pros
- With 4.8 volts of power
- 2 rotation speeds – 6,500 RPM and 13,000 RPM
- Gives you 100% control
- Cordless operation
- Comes with a 3-hour rechargeable battery
- LED light indicates correct charging
- Ergonomic design
- Works relatively quietly
- Includes a 407 sanding drum and a 408 sanding band for other sanding applications
- Backed with a 2-year warranty
cons
- Some reviewers wished there were a nail dust catcher and a protective case or covering for storing the product
INVENHO Pet Nail Grinder
Next up, we have the INVENHO Pet Nail Grinder. This handy tool is perfect for owners with multiple cats. Not only can you maintain your kitty’s nails at a safe length, but you can also avoid car rides and groomer visits that could stress out anxious pets.
The INVENHO Pet Nail Grinder offers several advantages. First, this product uses a diamond bit grinder. This means it provides high-grinding precision, making sure your cat’s jagged claws become smooth in no time.
Second, it is versatile. It has three ports to cater to different nail sizes and nail strengths. This feature greatly minimizes the risk of cutting the quick or injuring a twitchy cat. You just have to choose the appropriate port for your cat and start grinding until the claw could no longer go any further. The manufacturer also claims it has two speed settings.
Moreover, this nail grinder operates in a low vibration configuration. It also operates like a quiet stream since it is only 50 dB. This means you can now grind the nails of a noise-stricken cat. If you are not a fan of batteries, you will be delighted to know that it comes with a USB cable. A dust collector is also included.
pros
- Equipped with a diamond bit grinding stone for high-precision grinding
- Has multiple ports and speed choices to cater to cats of all sizes
- Works amazingly quietly at 50 dB
- Comes with an extra grinder
- Includes a USB cable for charging
- Can be used while charging
- Includes a dust collector
cons
- RPM is not specified
- Some reviewers wished there was a wall outlet attachment to make charging easy
Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder
This product may look like a pretty bottle of body spray in a glance but no, it is one of the best electric pet nail grinders made by an industry leader. At the time of writing, this model has earned a 4-star rating and 4,155 reviews.
The Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder promises to deliver fast and effective results without sending your cat into an absolute fit. It is manufactured with a diamond bit grinder, making mani-pedis for your kitty safe and effective.
This product is suitable for multi-pet households, too. It comes with three size ports. Port 1 is for large- and medium-sized pets, while port 2 is suitable for small pets, such as cats. The depths of the ports don’t extend too far, thereby it prevents you from hitting the quick. If you need to speed up grinding, simply remove the port cover and place your cat’s claw against the diamond bit grinder.
Moreover, this handy device is capable of being recharged via a USB cable and it has an LED indicator that lights up when it has finished charging. Although the manufacturer has not disclosed the exact decibel level of their product, many reviewers pointed out that the trimming process was nearly inaudible.
pros
- The grinding stone is as “hard as diamonds” and can be removed for quick cleaning
- Has multiple ports and speed choices to cater to cats of all sizes
- Cover is removable
- Comes with a USB cable for charging
- Low noise and low vibration configuration
- Runs more quietly than the Dremel 7300-PT
cons
- RPM and decibel level are not specified
- Some reviewers mentioned that charging and grinding takes a lot longer
Pet Republique Dog and Cat Nail Grinder
The Republique Dog and Cat Nail Grinder is a full-on heavy-duty mani-pedi kit for multiple pets. It includes an electric nail grinder, a pair of clippers, and a USB cable for charging. The nail grinder stars a powerful motor that only produces 60 dB of noise and a diamond bit grinding stone with three different openings. The speedy diamond bit cuts right through your cat’s claws without moving too fast.
Adding to that, the nail grinder has two speed settings to accommodate your pet’s needs. Likewise, it features a low vibration configuration that benefits anxious kitties. The nail grinder is also equipped with a quick-charging battery and a USB cord.
By the way, Pet Republique donates 15% of their profits to the American Animal Rescue Society. So, if you wish to do a little charity work while getting a nail grooming kit, this is the way to go. The manufacturer has also given 30 days money back and a one-year warranty.
pros
- Includes several nail grooming essentials
- Highlights a diamond bit grinding stone
- Has 3 ports and 2-speed settings
- Operates at 60 dB
- Features a low vibration configuration
- Equipped with a quick-charging battery
- Includes a USB cord
- Backed with a 1-year warranty
cons
- No negative feedback received regarding the nail grinder
AMIR Pet Nail Grinder
You don’t have to compromise on quality even when your budget is tight. This sporty-looking nail grinder by AMIR offers several advantages but the biggest advantage is its patented music mute technology, which reduces the noise level of the motor to as little as 60 dB. That way, it won’t scare your kitty or make him feel uncomfortable.
It also highlights a diamond-plated grinder, making the trimming process more effective. Likewise, it has three grinding ports to choose from, including a port for kittens. The cap is a cinch to take off, too.
Moreover, the product package includes batteries and a plastic cover to prevent dust from flying around. There are also instructions in the box, which will teach you how to best clean the product.
pros
- The product weighs only 0.2 lbs.
- Highlights a diamond-plated grinder, brass shaft, and ABS plastic
- Operates at 60 dB
- Has an ergonomic design
- Has multiple ports and speed choices to cater to cats of all sizes
- The cap is removable
- Includes a plastic cover to help contain cuttings
cons
- Lacks a dust collector
- The backside of the unit is rickety
- You have to buy replacement AA batteries every now and then
Oster Gentle Paws Nail Grinder
With the Oster Gentle Paws Nail Grinder, keeping your cat’s nails trimmed no longer has to be a dreadful chore. The package includes a smooth band, two coarse bands, and a coarse stone, so you can customize your settings according to your cat’s needs. Many reviewers are impressed that the manufacturer thoughtfully included a clear and adjustable safety guard – a feature that you rarely see in nail grinders.
This nail grinder has a quiet operation and a vibration reduction build to help reduce stress in skittish cats. It features a cordless ergonomic design, which makes it easy to keep a firm grip during extended sessions. This nail grinder has multiple ports that will grind your cat’s claws at a perfect length – not too short and not too long. Likewise, it comes with two speed settings. You can start with a fast speed to quickly grind your cat’s claw down then later use the slow speed for shaping and smoothing it over.
Oster is a big name in the field of tools and appliances. Knowing that is a well-known brand, their nail grinder for cats is certainly worth a try!
pros
- Includes 1 smooth band, 2 coarse bands, and 1 coarse stone
- Features a clear and adjustable safety guard to catch nail dust
- Has multiple ports and dual-speed settings
- Cordless ergonomic design
- Has a quiet operation and a vibration reduction build
cons
- You have to buy replacement AA batteries
- Some reviewers griped about grindings falling out of unused ports
SHU UFANRO Pet Nail Grinder
The SHU UFANRO Pet Nail Grinder is a beautiful one with a bunch of nice features. It is fitted with a detachable diamond bit grinder designed for a quick and effective kitty manicure. Another distinctive advantage is its non-slip silicone grip, making the grinder more comfortable to use. Plus, there are no wires to get in the way.
Moreover, it has three grinding ports, but for bigger stubborn claws, it would be more effective to remove the cap and expose the entire grinding wheel. This nail grinder is battery-powered and you may conveniently connect the device to a laptop, an AC adaptor, or a power bank using the USB cord that comes with the package.
pros
- Has a silicone grip with anti-skid texture
- Adopts a diamond bit grinder
- Has multiple ports and a removable cap
- Includes a USB cord for charging
cons
- You have to buy replacement AA batteries
SHINCO Pet Electric Nail Grinder
Know that you can get the best nail grinding tool for your kitty, even when you have a shoestring budget. Introducing, the SHINCO Pet Electric Nail Grinder. The package includes the device itself, an extra pair of diamond bit grinders, and a USB cable. The grinding wheel is removable for easy cleaning. Likewise, you can conveniently connect the nail grinder to an AC adapter, a power bank, or a computer for charging. The unit works up to five hours, and it also takes five hours to charge.
What we like most about this nail grinder is that it operates quietly, and it barely shakes. We guarantee your kitty will hardly notice that you are filing its nails. This particular nail grinder also provides you with a really good grip, thanks to its rubberized handle.
pros
- Has a textured rubber grip
- Each grinding wheel is attached to a special brass shaft
- Has multiple ports and a removable cap
- Works quietly at 50 dB for 5 hours straight
- Includes a set of bonus grinders and a USB cord for charging
- Backed with a 1-year warranty
cons
- Breaks easily
- No speed options
Pecute Rechargeable Pet Nail Trimmer
Simply put, the Pecute Rechargeable Pet Nail Trimmer is an excellent option for owners who are always on the go. It boasts of a 600mA Lithium battery that works efficiently for 240 minutes straight! You can connect it to an AC adapter, or any gadget and it only takes 60 minutes to reach full charge. There is a light indicator to ensure you won’t overcharge.
Safe and effective, it stars a thick diamond grindstone cut head. Depending on your cat’s needs, you can let it spin between 6,000 RPM and 6,800 RPM. Regardless of the speed, rest assured it remains super quiet at 50 dB. Likewise, it has three size ports to choose from.
pros
- Uses a 600mA Lithium battery that only takes 1 hour to charge
- Features a thick diamond grinding head
- Works up to 3 hours
- Has multiple ports and speed settings
- Operates at 50 dB
- Backed with a 1-year warranty
- Includes a USB cable for charging
- Has a charging indicator
- Available in black
cons
- Some reviewers commented that it isn’t aggressive enough and may take a while to trim down thick nails
KeShi Nail Grinder
The KeShi Nail Grinder is a complete nail grooming kit. It includes a nail grinder, nail clippers, a nail file, and a USB cable. The nail grinder, which is the star, features a powerful diamond grinding bit, three ports, and two speed settings. Operating at less than 40 dB, this nail grinder has to be the quietest of all nail grinders! The only annoying sound you will ever hear is a beep, which indicates that your cat’s claw has moved in too far inside the port.
The manufacturer claims that you won’t have to spend five minutes on trimming a single claw. In fact, one reviewer said that it only takes a couple of minutes to finish all the trimming work for her large dog with thick nails.
Moreover, the unit is powered by a Lithium polymer battery that supports a 90-minute charge using an adapter. The nail grinder can last up to six hours, which is two or three hours longer than most nail grinders. You can also charge the unit via a wall outlet using an adapter.
pros
- Includes a nail grinder, a nail clipper, a nail file, and a USB cable
- Operates at 40 dB
- Only takes 90 minutes to charge
- Has multiple ports and speed settings
- Works up to 6 hours
- Backed with a 1-year warranty
cons
- You have to pay extra for other tools you might not use
Nail Grinders for Cats Buying Guide
Cat Nail Grinders vs. Cat Nail Clippers: Which One is Better?
A majority of grooming professionals and veterinarians prefer nail grinders to nail clippers, especially for anxious cats. However, that doesn’t mean they discourage the use of nail clippers and other similar tools. If your cat doesn’t mind vibrations and white noise, then he is a good candidate for an electric nail grinder for a cat.
What are the Advantages of Using a Cat Nail Grinder?
Cat Nail Grinders Are User-friendly
A cat nail grinder is by far the easiest clipping tool to use. Even owners without prior experience in trimming sharp kitty claws can use a nail grinder. Likewise, it doesn’t matter whether you have a steady hand or not. You simply turn it on and put your cat’s claw gently through a port or against the sanding drum.
Cat Nail Grinders Are a Lot Safer to Use
Compared to other nail trimmers, a cat nail grinder virtually eliminates the risk of cutting near the quick – the pink part of your cat’s nails where nerves and blood vessels are found. Cut too short and you will get a swift smack from your cat!
Nail Grinding Eliminates the Unnecessary Need for Declawing
Feline onychectomy, popularly known as declawing, used to be the norm back in the day. However, what people considered as a “quick fix” is actually a painful, crippling procedure that causes lifelong physical problems in cats. The best alternative to declawing would be trimming your cat’s claws regularly using the best cat nail grinder. With it, your cat stays happily healthy and your belongings stay intact.
Cat Nail Grinders Help Cut Down Grooming Costs
A walk-in nail trim may be the least expensive grooming service on the “kitty spa” menu, costing you only $10 to $15 per session. However, a cat’s claws need trimming every 10 to 14 days. If you are serious about your cat’s grooming, you may have to pay $365 to $547 each year just for that. If that sounds a lot, you might as well just buy a cat nail grinder today.
It Iis Portable
Compact, lightweight, and rechargeable; a cat nail grinder is ideal for cat owners who take their furry pals along with them on their travels.
Factors to Consider
Finding the best nail cat grinder in an ocean of subpar products can be a mind-numbing and energy-sapping task even for a dedicated cat owner. Don’t worry, though. We did the tedious work for you and listed out the important factors that you need to consider when buying one.
Power Source
The cat nail grinders in our list are cordless models. A cordless design provides freedom of movement, which can be a huge blessing for owners with a skittish kitty. However, it is up to you whether or not you choose a unit that is powered by replaceable AA batteries or a model that is rechargeable via a USB cable. If you like the idea of being able to charge through any electronic device aside from the wall outlet, the latter would be the best fit for you.
Ergonomic Design
You need a nail grinder that won’t slip out of your hand while you are trimming your cat’s nails. It should be lightweight and easy to hold as well.
Speed Settings
A majority of the nail cat grinders on our list have multiple speed settings. The speed setting determines how long it takes you to finish the trimming process. Ideally, you need a model with at least two speed settings – a fast speed setting for quickly grinding the nail and a slower speed setting for smoothing or shaping the nail.
Sound and Vibration
Cats are Drama Queens and Kings. So, choose a nail grinder that has a quiet operation - ideally, 60 dB or less. It should also have a low vibration configuration that your cat can tolerate.
Removable Cover/Dust Collector
A removable cover or a dust collector helps prevent messes, as it collects the stray nail dust and small nail claw chips. The lack of this feature, however, doesn’t indicate that the product is not a steal.
Multiple Ports
The nail grinder you should choose must have at least two ports for grinding the nails. This will ensure it accommodates different nail sizes.
Warranty
Electric nail grinders are prone to breaking faster than traditional nail grooming tools. It is wise to buy a product that is backed with a warranty in case it fails.
Price
Never settle for the cheapest product you can find because it will definitely offer bad results. Rather, it is better to look for a product that has been approved by many.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cat nail grinder?
The best cat nail grinder is the vet-recommended Dremel 7300-PT. Even Dr. Karen Shaw Becker uses this product!Although it lacks a removable cover, it has a powerful motor, two rotation speeds, an ergonomic design, and many other delightful features. Plus, you can use it for other sanding purposes in your home.
Are nail grinders good for cats?
Nail grinders are good for cats, as these products leave little to no error when it comes to trimming your pet’s nails.
Does grinding a cat's nails hurt them?
A: The reason why most vets and groomers prefer nail grinders to nail clippers is that it has a nail guard that prevents you from cutting near the quick.
How often should you grind your cat's nails?
A: PetMD recommends trimming your cat’s nails every 10 to 14 days.
How quickly do grinders work? Does it take a long time to grind the nail to a shorter length?
A: The answer depends on the speed and power of the unit. Generally, a speed setting of 13,000 RPM won’t take five minutes for each claw.
Are cat nail grinders quiet?
A: Cat nail grinders are quiet, ranging from 60 to 40 decibels. That equals to a quiet stream or a gentle breeze.