Scratching is a part of normal feline behavior. Cats scratch to leave both visual and aromatic messages, and to express excitement and pleasure. Cats also scratch to help remove the worn-out sheaths from their claws and to stretch their muscles and spine. Due to the possible adverse effects we do not perform this procedure at our office. We would be happy to discuss the alternatives to declawing your cat. If you have questions please do not hesitate to call or email the office

Retrospective studies indicate that declawed cats are more likely to have or demonstrate*:

  1. Persistent pain (3x as likely)
  2. Inappropriate elimination of urine/stool (7x as likely)
  3. Display aggression (4x as likely)
  4. Biting (3x as likely)
  5. Overgrooming (3x as likely)

Amputated distal phalanx

Illustration depicting onchectomy (declaw) surgery

Declawing a cat is equivalent to amputating a human digit at the first knuckle

Radiographic changes post declaw surgery

Alternatives to declawing

Nail Trimming

Nail trimming can be performed on most cats with very little practice. You can trim your cats nails every 4-6 wks in order to remove the sharp ends. If you do not feel comfortable trimming your cats nails we would be happy to demonstrate this procedure for you at our office. Cats that are typically very anxious during appointments occasionally need light sedation for nail trims. Our veterinarians can discuss the best option for your cat during your appointment time

Nail caps

Nail caps are glued onto the end of your cats existing nails to prevent them from using their claws. They need to be replaced about every 6-8 weeks. They come in a variety of colors and sizes. They are generally well tolerated and effective. We can help with the first application of soft claws! We have soft paws available for purchase in our retail area, so you will have no need to make a separate trip to the pet store!

Feliscratch

Excessive scratching by cats might be due to stress, fear or insecurity. This often results in inappropriate scratching in multiple places in the home. Excessive scratching has generally nothing to do with conditioning the nails. Cats usually use the same visible location to mark their territory, often close to their resting places. Cats could use the wallpaper, rug, sofa, chair, table or other furniture for this and it might happen that the cat does not use the scratching post (anymore). To redirect your cat’s scratching behavior you can use Feliscratch. It can also be used to immediately make clear to kittens or rehomed cats where they can scratch.

*Martell-Moran NK, Solano M and Townsend HGG. Pain and adverse behavior in declawed cats. J Feline Med Surg. Epub ahead of print 23 May 2017. DOI: 10.1177/1098612X17705044.

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