How To Declaw My Cat: Pros & Cons

Can you declaw a cat? Yes, declawing a cat is a surgical procedure, known scientifically as feline onychectomy, that removes a cat’s claws. This blog post will explore the cat declawing pros and cons, discuss the alternatives to cat declawing, and delve into the complexities surrounding whether declawing is humane and the potential declawing surgery risks.

Many cat owners face the dilemma of destructive scratching. Furniture gets ruined, and sometimes even people get hurt. This leads many to ask about declawing their feline companions. While it seems like a straightforward solution, it’s a procedure with significant debate surrounding it. This article aims to provide a comprehensive look at the practice, examining both sides of the argument to help you make an informed decision. We will also explore the consequences of declawing cats and discuss alternatives that can achieve similar results without the controversy.

How To Declaw My Cat
Image Source: www.northwoodanimal.com

What is Cat Declawing (Feline Onychectomy)?

Declawing a cat, or feline onychectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves the amputation of the last bone, or third phalanx, of each toe. This is where the claw grows from. The claw itself is removed, along with the entire phalanx. It’s not just a nail trimming; it’s a more invasive operation.

The Surgical Process

  1. Anesthesia: The cat is given general anesthesia to ensure they feel no pain during the procedure.
  2. Tourniquet: A tourniquet is applied to the limb to control bleeding.
  3. Incision: The surgeon makes an incision through the flexor tendon and skin on the bottom of the toe.
  4. Bone Removal: Using specialized instruments like nail clippers or a scalpel, the surgeon carefully cuts through the bone at the joint, removing the last bone segment of each toe.
  5. Closure: The tissues are then stitched closed, often with absorbable sutures. Sometimes, a sterile bandage is applied.

The procedure is typically performed on all ten toes of the front paws. Some owners may opt for declawing the back paws as well, though this is less common.

Cat Declawing Pros & Cons

The decision to declaw a cat is complex, with passionate arguments on both sides. Here’s a breakdown of the commonly cited pros and cons.

Potential Pros of Declawing

  • Protection of Furniture and Belongings: This is often the primary reason owners consider declawing. It effectively stops cats from scratching and damaging upholstery, carpets, and other household items.
  • Reduced Risk of Injury to People: For households with very young children or individuals with compromised immune systems, the risk of being scratched by a cat can be a concern. Declawing eliminates this risk.
  • Reduced Risk of Injury to Other Pets: In multi-pet households, severe scratching incidents between animals can occur. Declawing can prevent such confrontations.
  • Easier for Owners with Mobility Issues: For individuals who find it difficult to manage a cat’s scratching or to provide adequate scratching posts, declawing might seem like an easier solution.

Potential Cons of Declawing

  • It is a Surgical Amputation: The most significant con is that declawing is not merely trimming nails. It is the surgical removal of the last bone of each toe. This can be compared to a human having their fingernails and the last bone of each finger amputated.
  • Pain and Discomfort: While anesthesia is used, cats can experience significant pain during recovery. Some cats may continue to experience chronic pain or discomfort in their paws.
  • Potential for Declawing Surgery Risks: Like any surgery, declawing carries inherent risks. These include infection, nerve damage, and complications from anesthesia.
  • Behavioral Changes: Many cats exhibit behavioral changes after declawing. These can include:
    • Litter Box Avoidance: The pain in their paws can make using a litter box painful. Cats may associate the pain with the litter box and begin to eliminate elsewhere.
    • Biting: Since their primary defense and scratching mechanism is removed, some cats may resort to biting to defend themselves or express distress.
    • Reluctance to Jump or Play: The altered anatomy can make it uncomfortable for cats to jump, climb, or engage in normal playful activities.
    • Loss of Balance: A cat’s toes play a role in balance and agility. Amputating them can affect their ability to move naturally.
  • Long-Term Health Issues: Some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that declawed cats may be more prone to arthritis in their paws and spine due to altered weight-bearing. The long-term impact on feline health is still a subject of ongoing research and discussion.
  • Ethical Concerns: Many animal welfare organizations and veterinarians consider declawing to be an inhumane procedure that inflicts unnecessary pain and can negatively impact a cat’s quality of life.
  • Irreversibility: Once a cat is declawed, the procedure cannot be reversed.

Is Declawing Humane?

This is perhaps the most contentious aspect of the declawing debate. Many animal welfare experts and veterinary bodies argue that declawing is not humane.

Arguments Against Declawing’s Humanity

  • Nature of the Procedure: As mentioned, it’s an amputation of a bone. This is a significant surgical intervention that causes pain and can have lasting effects.
  • Natural Behavior Disruption: Scratching is a natural and essential behavior for cats. It allows them to:
    • Mark territory (visual and scent marking).
    • Stretch their bodies and claws.
    • Shed the outer sheath of their claws.
    • Relieve stress and express excitement.
      Declawing deprives them of this outlet, forcing them to suppress a fundamental instinct.
  • Potential for Chronic Pain: The nerve endings and tissue in the cat’s paw can be affected by the amputation, potentially leading to chronic pain or discomfort, especially when they walk or stand.
  • Behavioral Consequences: The negative behavioral changes, such as litter box issues and biting, are often seen as a direct result of the stress and discomfort caused by the procedure, further challenging its humane nature.

Arguments For Declawing (from proponents)

Proponents of declawing often emphasize that it is performed to prevent the euthanasia of cats whose scratching behaviors are deemed unacceptable by owners, particularly when other methods have failed. They argue that with proper surgical technique and post-operative care, the pain can be managed and the long-term effects minimized. However, this viewpoint is increasingly challenged by the availability of effective alternatives and a deeper understanding of feline well-being.

Alternatives to Cat Declawing

Fortunately, there are numerous effective alternatives to declawing that allow you to protect your belongings while respecting your cat’s natural needs and well-being.

1. Regular Cat Nail Trimming

This is the most straightforward and widely recommended alternative.

  • How to Do It:
    • Get the Right Tools: Invest in a good pair of cat nail clippers. There are guillotine-style and scissor-style clippers available.
    • Handle Your Cat Gently: Make sure your cat is relaxed. Pet them and gently extend one paw.
    • Identify the Quick: The quick is the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. You only want to trim the clear or white part of the nail, avoiding the quick. If you accidentally cut the quick, it will bleed, and your cat will feel pain.
    • Trim Small Amounts: It’s better to trim a little off the tip regularly than to try and remove a large amount at once.
    • Positive Reinforcement: Offer treats and praise after each successful nail trim.
  • Frequency: Most cats benefit from nail trims every 2-4 weeks.
  • Professional Help: If you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself, your veterinarian or a professional groomer can perform nail trims.

2. Provide Appropriate Scratching Posts and Surfaces

Cats need to scratch. Providing them with appealing alternatives is crucial.

  • Variety is Key: Offer different types of scratching surfaces:
    • Materials: Cardboard, sisal rope, carpet, wood.
    • Orientations: Vertical posts, horizontal pads, angled scratchers.
  • Placement Matters:
    • Put scratching posts near where your cat sleeps, as cats often scratch upon waking to stretch.
    • Place them near furniture they are currently scratching to redirect their attention.
    • In a multi-cat household, provide multiple scratching posts in different locations.
  • Stability: Ensure posts are sturdy and won’t wobble or tip over when your cat uses them, as this can be frightening.
  • Attractants: Catnip spray or toys can be used to make scratching posts more appealing.

3. Nail Caps (e.g., Soft Paws)

These are small, vinyl caps that are glued over your cat’s claws.

  • How They Work: They blunt the claws, preventing them from causing damage when your cat scratches.
  • Application: They are relatively easy to apply, though some cats may need time to adjust.
  • Duration: They typically last about 4-6 weeks and fall off naturally as the claw grows and sheds its outer sheath.
  • Considerations: Some cats may chew them off. It’s essential to ensure the cat is not allergic to the adhesive.

4. Training and Behavior Modification

Positive reinforcement techniques can be very effective in redirecting scratching behavior.

  • Reward Good Behavior: When you see your cat using a scratching post, praise them and offer a treat.
  • Discourage Undesired Scratching: If you catch your cat scratching furniture, don’t punish them. Instead, distract them with a toy or a noise (like a clap), and then immediately redirect them to a scratching post. Reward them if they use the post.
  • Make Furniture Unappealing: Use double-sided sticky tape, aluminum foil, or citrus-scented sprays (cats generally dislike citrus) on furniture to deter them from scratching those areas.

Declawing Surgery Risks and Complications

Even with skilled veterinary professionals, surgery always carries risks. Declawing is no exception.

Immediate Risks

  • Anesthesia Reactions: While rare, some cats can have adverse reactions to anesthesia.
  • Hemorrhage (Bleeding): There’s a risk of excessive bleeding during or after the surgery, particularly if the quick is damaged.
  • Infection: The surgical sites are susceptible to bacterial infection.
  • Pain: Post-operative pain is expected and requires management with pain medication.

Long-Term Complications

  • Chronic Pain: As discussed, persistent pain in the paws due to nerve damage or altered weight distribution is a significant concern.
  • Lameness: Some cats may develop a limp or have difficulty walking normally.
  • Paw Pad Issues: The surgical site can sometimes develop calluses or sores.
  • Nerve Damage: The nerves in the toes can be damaged during the procedure, leading to loss of sensation or persistent discomfort.
  • Nail Regrowth: Occasionally, a small part of the claw germinal matrix can be left behind, leading to painful regrowth of deformed nails within the paw.

Cat Paw Amputation: The Reality of Declawing

It’s important to reiterate that “declawing” is technically a cat paw amputation. The word “declaw” can be misleading, making the procedure sound less severe than it is. By removing the last bone segment of each toe, the very structure that allows cats to extend and retract their claws is permanently altered. This fundamentally changes their anatomy and can have profound implications for their comfort and well-being.

The Mechanics of a Cat’s Paw

A cat’s paw is a complex and sensitive part of its body. The toes are crucial for:

  • Grasping and Climbing: The retractable claws provide grip.
  • Walking and Balance: Cats walk on their toes, and the pads of their paws cushion impact and provide sensory feedback.
  • Digging: Whether it’s burying waste or exploring textures.
  • Grooming: Cats use their paws to clean themselves.

When these bones are removed, the entire biomechanics of the paw are altered. This is why many veterinary professionals advocate for alternatives.

Feline Health and Declawing

The impact of declawing on feline health is a significant concern. While some cats may appear to recover without obvious issues, others suffer from subtle or overt problems for the rest of their lives.

Immune System and Stress

Some researchers believe that the chronic pain or discomfort associated with declawing can place a strain on a cat’s immune system, potentially making them more susceptible to illness. The stress of altered mobility and the inability to perform natural behaviors can also contribute to a compromised state of health.

Weight Distribution and Musculoskeletal Issues

Without the natural extension of their toes, cats may adjust their gait to compensate. This can lead to increased pressure on their wrist and ankle joints, potentially causing:

  • Arthritis
  • Degenerative joint disease
  • Back pain

The long-term consequences on a cat’s musculoskeletal system are still being studied but are a cause for significant concern among veterinary professionals.

Cat Behavior After Declawing

The alteration in a cat’s physical state often leads to noticeable changes in their behavior.

Litter Box Problems

This is one of the most frequently reported behavioral issues.

  • Painful Association: The pain of stepping in the litter, especially if it’s clumping or dusty, can make cats reluctant to use their litter box. They may begin to urinate or defecate on soft surfaces like carpets or beds, which are more forgiving on their sensitive paws.
  • Avoidance of Digging: The natural instinct to dig and bury waste can be hampered by the altered paw structure and any residual pain, leading to avoidance of the litter box.

Increased Aggression and Biting

When their primary defense mechanism – their claws – is removed, some cats may resort to biting to defend themselves, to express fear, or to communicate discomfort. This can be a dangerous and unpredictable outcome, especially in households with children.

Reluctance to Engage in Play or Activities

The discomfort in their paws can make activities like jumping, climbing, and even running painful. This can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle, which can, in turn, contribute to obesity and other health problems.

Chewing on Paws

Some declawed cats may compulsively chew on their paws, a sign of chronic pain or discomfort.

Feline Onychectomy: A Changing Landscape

The medical and ethical perspectives on feline onychectomy have evolved significantly over the years. Many veterinary organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association (HSVMA), have expressed strong reservations or outright opposition to declawing due to the pain and potential for negative behavioral outcomes.

Jurisdictional Bans: Several countries and a growing number of states and cities in the United States have banned or restricted the practice of declawing cats, recognizing it as an unnecessary mutilation. This reflects a broader shift in how we view animal welfare and the importance of respecting a pet’s natural behaviors and physical integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is declawing my cat painful?

Yes, declawing is a surgical procedure involving the amputation of the last bone of each toe. While anesthesia is used during the surgery, cats will experience pain during the recovery period, and some may suffer from chronic pain afterward.

Q2: Will my cat be okay after declawing?

Many cats recover from declawing surgery, but some experience lifelong pain, behavioral problems, or mobility issues. The long-term effects vary greatly among individual cats.

Q3: Are there any safe alternatives to declawing?

Absolutely. Regular nail trimming, providing appropriate scratching posts, using nail caps like Soft Paws, and positive reinforcement training are all effective and humane alternatives to declawing.

Q4: Can declawed cats still climb or jump?

While many declawed cats can still climb and jump, they may experience discomfort or pain when doing so. The altered anatomy of their paws can affect their agility and balance.

Q5: How do I stop my cat from scratching my furniture?

You can stop your cat from scratching furniture by providing attractive scratching alternatives, using deterrents like double-sided tape or citrus sprays on furniture, and by consistently rewarding your cat for using their scratching posts.

Q6: What is the veterinary stance on declawing?

Many veterinary organizations, including the AVMA, have concerns about declawing due to the pain and potential for negative behavioral outcomes. A growing number of veterinarians refuse to perform the procedure, advocating for humane alternatives.

Conclusion

The decision to declaw a cat is significant and should be made only after careful consideration of all the facts, including the potential cat declawing pros and cons. While the desire to protect furniture is understandable, it’s crucial to weigh that against the potential for pain, suffering, and behavioral issues for your feline companion. Exploring the various alternatives to cat declawing is a vital step in responsible pet ownership. By understanding the full scope of the feline onychectomy procedure, its risks, and the ethical considerations, you can make the most compassionate choice for your cat’s lifelong health and happiness.

Leave a Comment