If you are thinking about it or if your doctor advises it in conjunction with neutering, take into consideration these arguments against declawing a cat. Given that the treatment will have a significant impact on your pet’s life, it is imperative that you gather all the facts before making a choice.
Declawing Isn’t Just Nail Trimming
Recognize that the cat’s first toe joint must be surgically removed during declawing. Whether performed with a scalpel, guillotine-style cutter, or possibly a laser, this technique needs major surgery and should not be tried lightly.
It’s a Brutal Operation, Declawing
Think of it as ten amputations (if only the front feet are declawed). At initially, painkillers may be beneficial, but as nerve endings heal, phantom pain may last for several weeks or months. A cat should recover quickly from surgery after being neutered, but declawing the cat could result in excruciating pain and significant behavioral issues.
Declawing May Lead to Litter Box Problems
Due to cats’ propensity for using their claws to bury their waste, most cats tend to pick up using a litter box very quickly. The owner usually does it for convenience’s sake.
Declawing takes away a cat’s primary line of defense.
The typical reaction is, “My cat exclusively lives indoors.” Even house cats occasionally manage to get away. A declawed cat is completely defenseless against dogs, bigger cats, and other predators. A cat with no claws still has fangs, but it would need to get very close to a predator to bite it, and by then it might be too late.
Declawing Is Not Beneficial for Cats
Contrary to neutering, which has many advantages, declawing a cat has no positive consequences on its health or behavior. A cat with no claws finds digging in litter or any other material painful and will likely attribute their discomfort to the litter box. It might be inferred from that that they never use the litter box.
Biting problems occasionally develop from dewing
When a cat can’t warn an intruder right away with a warning scratch, cats frequently resort to biting as a last resort. When a declawed cat feels threatened or powerless, it may bite, so be prepared for that possibility.
Cats need the exercise that their claws and toes provide.
Whether it’s on the ground or a tall scratching post, observe a cat stretching. It will grab carpet or sisal with its claws, tugging and tensing its muscles in response to resistance. Cats’ claws actually have a positive and significant impact on their muscle tone and agility.
Altering Your Cat’s Gait May Lead to Later Joint Problems
Domestic cats are digitigrade, which means they walk on their toes. The first toe digit will affect your cat’s walking style, and the joints in its leg may also be affected. As a result, your cat can eventually develop arthritis in its hip and other joints. Declawing your cat could therefore seriously compromise its long-term health.
Declawing Alternatives That Are Humane
If you’re still wondering whether to go with declawing, bear this in mind: there might be more humane alternatives. Even though it’s your decision, please consider your cat’s needs carefully before making such a drastic and permanent choice.
If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your family pet, know the pet’s health history, and may make the best recommendations for your pet.
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