Cats with claws
What is nail removal?
Declawing is the term used to describe the surgical removal of a cat’s toenail and is usually done to prevent destructive behavior such as scratching furniture or carpets.
Is declawing cruel to the cat?
If the veterinarian uses the correct surgical technique and administers pain medication, declawing can be done safely and with minimal discomfort. There should be no long-term side effects from nail removal. In fact, most cats don’t even realize it’s done. They will still use their feet as if they had claws.
Is declawing as routine as spaying and neutering?
No. Declawing is reserved for indoor cats only and only after training techniques have failed. Most cats can be taught to use their claws in an acceptable manner. But if your cat is resistant to training, it may be better for the cat to be declawed and left safely indoors rather than declawed and left outdoors where it is exposed to more disease and injury.
So what should cat owners know before considering declawing their cat?
Declawing should only be considered after other training efforts have failed. Cats are more trainable than you might think, and most cats can be taught to use their claws in an acceptable manner. Discuss the surgery and technique with your veterinarian. Some techniques are better than others. The correct use of pain medication during surgery is also very important. Declawed cats should remain pets.
#Cats #claws
