The 12 Best Cat Nail Clippers of 2023: Guillotine, Scissors & More

As the name suggests, a cat nail clipper is a tool that is used to trim a cat's nails. This process is important because cats have very sharp claws that can seriously injure you or destroy carpets, upholstery, and other fabrics. Long nails can also harm cats if they grow into the footpad.

Thus, you need a high-quality cat nail clipper that can trim them without harming your pet. If you are looking for such a tool, we have what you need. We have reviewed the best cat nail clippers that you can get in the market. Read through and take your pick.

7 Best Cat Nail Clippers: Review

1. Best Overall: Boshel BA-NCOO3

• Type of Nail Clipper: Pliers
• Blade Material: Stainless Steel
• Handle Material: Rubber

With its user-friendly design, safety stop, and high-quality construction, the BA-NCOO3 is our best tool in this cat nail clippers review. It has comfortable, easy-grip rubber handles that are ergonomically designed for user-friendliness. Additionally, they offer non-slip performance to prevent accidental cuts.

A safety stop is built-in to further reduce the chances of hurting your cat. It acts as a quick sensor that prevents you from cutting the nails too short or even the quick.

The actual cutting is done using high-quality 3.5mm stainless steel blades that maintain sharp edges for a long time. You also get a mini nail file that is tucked into the left handle.

On the downside, some customers complained that the blades are not sharp. Therefore, you have to sharpen them before use.

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2. Best Budget: Gorilla Grip Premium

• Type of Nail Clipper: Pliers
• Blade Material: Stainless Steel
• Handle Material: Silicone

This cat nail clipper is very economical, yet it includes a nail file to soften the edges of your cat's nails after trimming them. You also get premium safety features like a safety stop to prevent over trimming, and a click slide lock to keep the blades closed after use.

Ergonomic silicone handles give you a solid grip of the clippers for non-slip performance. They enable you to maintain precision and control when trimming even the wiggliest pets. These handles are available in ten colors to suit your preference.

A hanging hole is built into one of the handles for convenient storage after use. However, the blades might require sharpening before use as some buyers complained of this issue.

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3. Best Scissors: Shiny Pet Object #5

• Type of Nail Clipper: Scissors
• Blade Material: Stainless Steel
• Handle Material: Rubber
• Sizes: Small

If you prefer using the scissor-type of nail clipper, we highly recommend Shiny Pet's Object #5 . It has an angled (20º) semi-circular blade that allows you to trim while having a clear view of the cutting area.

In addition to this, the unit features green anti-slip rubber handles with comfortable finger rests for easy and accurate use.

An instructional E-book is included to help guide you when trimming your cat's nails for the first time. You also get a risk-free guarantee in the form of a lifetime money-back guarantee. However, the tool is only ideal for kittens and it lacks a safety stop.

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4. Best Professional: Gonicc NT-1001

• Type of Nail Clipper: Pliers
• Blade Material: Hardened Stainless Steel
• Handle Material: TPE & PP

As the best professional cat nail clipper, Gonicc's NT-1001 does not disappoint. It has razor-sharp hardened stainless-steel blades that are powerful enough to trim the nails with just a single cut.

There is an unlock protection feature that prevents children from using the clipper accidentally, while a safety stop guard keeps you from over-cutting and hurting your pet.

The tool is very user-friendly because it has ergonomic non-slip handles. They are strong, comfortable, and lightweight.

You also get a free nail file tucked into one of the handles for polishing sharp nail edges, and a hanging hole for convenient storage. On the downside, the clipper is expensive.

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5. Best for All Cat Sizes: CleanHouse Pets Clippers

• Type of Nail Clipper: Pliers
• Blade Material: Stainless Steel
• Sizes: Small - Large

Whether you have a kitten or an adult cat, this nail clipper can be used on all of them. Technically, two size options are available to cater to the different cat sizes. The small clipper is suitable for kittens, while the large one takes care of medium and big cats.

Both options are very affordable and therefore, you can buy them if you own multiple cats in different growth stages.

The clippers feature a professional-grade stainless-steel frame that is very durable. A built-in safety switch makes the units safe to use, while a lifetime money-back guarantee assures you of a risk-free purchase. The only issue is a missing unlock protection feature to prevent accidental use by children.

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6. Best for Kittens: Pet Republique 9899042

• Type of Nail Clipper: Scissors
• Blade Material: Stainless Steel

Pet Republique's 9899042 is a professional cat nail clipper built specifically for small pets. As such, it is one of the best kitten nail clippers and features thick stainless-steel blades that are strong and sharp enough to last for years.

The handles are ergonomically designed to fit both men and women for comfortable use. They are larger and softer as compared to other similar products on the market.

Another advantage of buying this tool is that 15% of the profits go to local shelters to help rescued abandoned cats and dogs. This way, they feel loved and have a home. However, the clipper lacks a safety stop guard and unlock protection.

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7. Best Hypoallergenic: H&H Pets TP111R

• Type of Nail Clipper: Scissors
• Blade Material: Stainless Steel
• Sizes: Small

This cat nail clipper features unique hypoallergenic stainless-steel blades that are very gentle on your pet. They are also highly durable, which creates a high-quality design. A slip-proof coat is fitted over the handles to give a comfortable grip for accurate trimming.

The scissor-type tool is backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee and a 3-year product warranty. For any piece you buy, a portion of the profits is donated to non-profit animal rescue organizations.

On the downside, the clipper is only designed for kittens and it does not include a nail file to polish the rough edges after cutting.

Other Recommended Cat Nail Clippers

8. Resco PF0752

Resco's PF0752 is one of the best cat claw clippers because it comes from a brand that invented the guillotine-style trimmer back in 1937. The tool features a patented blade replacement technology that makes it cheaper to maintain as compared to buying a new clipper.

It is made using steel and is powder-coated for maximum durability. You also get deluxe grips for comfortable use. Overall, the product is recommended by vets, groomers, and vet techs worldwide due to its high build quality.

Key Features

• Reliable brand.
• Patented blade replacement technology.
• Steel construction with a powder-coating.
• Recommended by vets, groomers, and vet techs.

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9. Neco Ichi Cats First DC-0801

Japan is known for making sharp, high-quality blades. Being from that country, the DC-0801 is crafted using 30% thinner blades that are made in Seki City. This region is home to some of the most celebrated swordsmiths in Japan for over 800 years.

The thin blade design enables you to see the base of the nail so that you don't cut too deep. They have extra sharp edges that trim cleanly and smoothly. On the other end, cushioned non-slip handles enable you to make precise cuts easily.

Key Features

• 30% thinner blades from Seki City, Japan.
• Extra-sharp edges.
• Cushioned non-slip handles.

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10. Jofuyu Cat Nail Clippers

Jofuyu's nail clipper is professionally designed for kittens as it has an angled blade set at 20º to the handle. Additionally, the blades are semi-circular and are beveled 25º. This ensures you get a clear view of the point you are cutting.

As for the handles, they are ergonomic and rubberized for comfortable, safe & easy use. The tool is backed by a lifetime money-back guarantee that assures you of a risk-free purchase.

Key Features

• Professionally designed for kittens.
• 20º angled blades.
• Semi-circular and beveled 25º for clear viewing.
• Lifetime money-back guarantee.

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11. GoPets Pet Nail Clipper

This piece is one of the best nail clippers for cats due to its professional quality and value for money. It is recommended by vets, animal trainers, and groomers because it cuts cleanly using thick 3.5mm thick stainless-steel blades.

On top of that, it comes with a nail file to polish the nails after cutting. You also get a quick sensor safety guard to prevent over-cutting and a locking switch to keep the blades shut when not in use. A hanging hole is built into one of the handles for convenient storage.

Key Features

• Thick 3.5mm thick stainless-steel blades.
• Includes a nail file.
• Quick sensor safety guard.
• Locking switch.

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12. JW 65026

JW's 65026 is characterized by a short, comfortable length that gives you easy control and maneuverability for safe & precise trimming. Additionally, it has anti-slip rubber handles that do not move or shift when in use. This ensures you cut accurately.

Despite its size, the tool is ideal for all cat sizes, breeds, and ages. The blades are semi-circular and beveled to give a clear view of the cutting point.

Key Features

• Short, comfortable length.
• Anti-slip rubber handles.
• Ideal for all cat sizes, breeds, and ages.
• Beveled, semi-circular blades.

How to Buy the Best Cat Nail Clippers

1. Types of Nail Clippers

Guillotine Clippers

Guillotine clippers have a stationary blade where you place your cat's nail and a moving blade. As you press the handle, the moving blade is pushed towards the nail. This presses it between the two blades to trim. Most of them have replaceable blades for cheap maintenance in the long run.

Scissor Clippers

These closely resemble normal scissors because they have loops in the handles for placing your fingers. They are usually built for small pets such as kittens. Also, they are lightweight, easy to hold, and easy to use.

Grinding Tool Trimmers

Grinders are more like nail files but in a mechanized rotating motion. They consist of sandpaper or emery board that chops down the nails in small bits using friction.

The main advantage of these tools is that they eliminate the risk of cutting too much or even too close to the quick at once. However, they are expensive.

Pliers Clippers

These are the most common types. The difference between them and the scissor-type is that they are larger, heavier, more heavy-duty, and lack finger loops on the handles. You can use them to trim thick nails in all cat sizes and some come with nail files to polish the rough edges after cutting.

Buying Guide: Overall, we recommend the pliers type as it is more versatile and durable. For this, be sure to check out Boshel's BA-NCOO3 . However, scissor nail clippers are more suitable for kittens because they are easier to hold and more maneuverable. In this case, Pet Republique's 9899042 is the best one.

2. Blades

Blades are the most important parts of nail clippers. Make sure these components are sharp, rust-free, and strong enough to trim nails without bending. Ideally, they should be made using stainless steel and have a curved cutting edge (semi-circular) for easy trimming.

Before first use, the blades should be sharp to avoid hurting your cat. You should check this when the clipper is new.

3. Handle

For comfortable use, ensure the handles are ergonomic and fit perfectly. Also, they should have a non-slip surface that gives you a good grip so that you cut with high precision.

4. Safety Features

There are two main safety features to look for in a nail clipper. The first one is a quick sensor, which is a safety stop that prevents you from over-cutting and getting to the quick.

You should also look for a locking switch that keeps the blades shut when not in use. This helps to prevent accidental cutting, especially if your kid gets his/her hands on the clippers.

5. Ease of Use

Ease of use is mostly associated with ergonomics. That said, you should ensure the handles are comfortable to hold and your fingers fit in them. It is worth mentioning that the scissor clipper types are easy to use because of their small size and easy maneuverability. Consider buying such if you have a small cat.

Tips for Clipping Your Cat's Nails

• First things first, look for a well-lit room or go outdoors so that you see the details of your cat's nails.
• Make sure you and your cat are calm. Any restlessness can cause you to over trim or cut into the quick, which can cause a lot of pain.
• Apply baby oil to the nail to make the quick visible. It should appear as a red-pink area.
• Get a good grip of the clipper on your dominant hand, and your cat's paw on your other hand.
• Begin clipping the nail gently while keeping an eye on the quick.

Q&A

1. Does It Hurt My Cat When I Clip His Nails?

Nail clipping does not hurt your cat unless you cut into the quick. This is a very sensitive area that can cause pain and bleeding when trimmed accidentally. That said, ensure the blades are sharp because blunt ones might split the nail and cause pain.

2. Can I Use Human Nail Clippers on My Cats?

Yes, you can. However, we recommend cat nail clippers because they are specifically designed for these pets. For instance, they have curved, semi-circular blades that conform to the shape of the nail. Some even have a safety stop to prevent you from cutting into the quick. Human nail clippers don't have these features.

3. How Often Should I Clip My Cat's Nails?

Every 10 - 14 days. This will keep them from growing too long and curving down to the footpad. However, if you spot any split or broken nails, clip them immediately.

4. How Often Should I Replace Cat Nail Clippers?

This depends on how often you use them. You should only replace them when the blades become blunt and you can't find a way to sharpen them, or the clipper gets damaged elsewhere. If you have a guillotine type, you don't have to replace the clipper if the blade loses its sharpness. Most have replaceable blades.

Buy on Etsy

Pet Republique Cat Nail Clippers - Professional Claw Trimmer for Cat, Kitten, Hamster, & - Walmart Link

gonicc Dog & Cat Pets Nail Clippers and Trimmers - with Safety Guard to Avoid Over - Walmart Link

Pet Nail Clippers for Small Animals - Best Cat Nail Clippers & Claw Trimmer for Home - Walmart Link

Luccalily Cat Nail Clipper with Safety Guard, Pet Nail Clipper and Claw Trimmer to Avoid - Walmart Link

gonicc Professional Pet Nail Clippers and Trimmer - Best for Cats, Small Dogs and Any - Walmart Link

Poodle Pet Cat Nail Trimmer Clipper Scissors for Cats, Kittens, Dogs, Puppies, Rabbits & - Walmart Link

Mr. Pen- Cat Nail Clipper, Cat Nail Trimmers, Cat Claw Clippers, Cat Claw Trimmers, - Walmart Link

Shiny Pet's Object #5 - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

Pet Republique Cat Nail Clippers - Professional Claw Trimmer for Cat, Kitten, Hamster, & - eBay Link

gonicc Dog & Cat Pets Nail Clippers and Trimmers - with Safety Guard to Avoid Over - eBay Link

Pet Nail Clippers for Small Animals - Best Cat Nail Clippers & Claw Trimmer for Home - eBay Link

Luccalily Cat Nail Clipper with Safety Guard, Pet Nail Clipper and Claw Trimmer to Avoid - eBay Link

gonicc Professional Pet Nail Clippers and Trimmer - Best for Cats, Small Dogs and Any - eBay Link

Poodle Pet Cat Nail Trimmer Clipper Scissors for Cats, Kittens, Dogs, Puppies, Rabbits & - eBay Link

Mr. Pen- Cat Nail Clipper, Cat Nail Trimmers, Cat Claw Clippers, Cat Claw Trimmers, - eBay Link

Shiny Pet's Object #5 - eBay Link

Conclusion

You need to be very careful when trimming your cat's nails and this is why we recommend the BA-NCOO3 as our best cat nail clipper. It has ergonomic, rubberized handles for comfortable holding, a safety-stop to prevent over-cutting, and includes a nail file to polish the edges after cutting.

Gonicc's NT-1001 is also worth checking out, especially for professional use. It has razor-sharp hardened stainless-steel blades, unlock protection & quick sensor for safe use and a nail file for smooth finishing.

However, if you have a kitten, Pet Republique's 9899042 is the best option as it is professionally designed for small pets. The unit has a scissor-type design with thick stainless-steel blades.