Declawing a cat does not simply consist of removing the claw. It is actually an amputation of the toe’s last joint, including ligaments and tendons. It would be like a human having the last joint on a finger removed. Declawing is far from being a simple and easy surgery.
Pictures of a surgery can be found at Educate Don’t Amputate. Pictures of the surgery are graphic and shouldn’t be viewed if you have a weak stomach.
Before the surgery, cats are given a general anesthesia, which could cause disability or death. Pain medication may be administered. Following this the paws will be cleaned, disinfected, and trimmed.
The joint will be removed by one of many types of cutting instruments, including a guillotine-type cutter, scalpel, or laser. Each toe is ripped away with the tool, causing the cat to growl and meow in pain. Once the joint is removed, the opening must be glued. Next the foot is wrapped in a bandage, and the next set of claws is taken off.
Recovery is a slow process. The cat must stay at the vet’s overnight to be observed. The next morning the bandages are taken off. Usually a few sockets have come undone, and glue must be reapplied. Removing the bandage, which the cat sometimes starts doing, and reapplying the surgical glue is just another painful part of the procedure. Bandages are reapplied, as the area will be sore for quite some time.
Frequently Asked Questions
I
heard declawing removes only the claw, is that true?
No, declawing removes the toe’s last joint, including ligaments,
tendons, and bone.
My
friend had their cat declawed and his personality didn’t change.
Will my cat’s personality remain the same?
It’s difficult to say. There is a good chance that your cat may
act differently after the surgery. Read our complications page to learn
more about personality changes and why they happen.
My
vet says declawing is a routine procedure. Is he correct?
Many vets do consider declawing a routine procedure. However, the list
of possible complications is longer than most routine procedures that
provide medical benefits.
I
adopted a cat that was already declawed. Is there anything special I should
do for that cat?
Moving to a new home can be stressful for a cat. A declawed cat could
potentially be more stressed out, because of their lack of defense. Don’t
push the cat to come to you or anyone else. Give the cat space and understanding.
In general, treat the cat like you would another new cat. Let them explore
and get comfy in their new home!
I’ve
tried squirting water from a water bottle on my cat when he scratches,
but he still doesn’t stop!
It may be time to move on to other alternatives.
Try showing him a legal scratching surface, like a scratching post or
Soft Paws.