Declawing Cats

Declawing Cats — how it’s harmful, why it’s done, and a few alternatives

Declawing: What is it and why is it harmful?

Declawing cats, although sounding straightforward, is more than just trimming the claws of a cat. It is defined as a surgical procedure involving an amputation of the entire first joint of the animal’s toe. If it sounds painful, that’s because it is. The pain endured throughout the procedure doesn’t stop once the surgery ends — it continues so long as the animal keeps walking.

Why do people declaw cats?

Declawing can be viewed as a “solution” to destructive behaviors. People are often tempted to declaw their cats after finding destroyed furniture or because they fear scratching could be harmful. Unfortunately, this type of thinking is short sighted because the procedure often leads to a multitude of issues for the animal, both physically and mentally.

Why do cats scratch?

Scratching is normal cat behavior and can be done when trying to mark their territory, as a way to remove the dead part of their nail, or simply to stretch. In addition, cat’s scratch as a way to express emotions like excitement or stress. Scratching is completely normal and can be seen as a sign of a happy cat. In addition, claws are not simply just for show — they’re needed for protection, to keep their balance, and to maintain mobility.

Long term effects of declawing a cat?

Physical Health Issues

Declawing can produce paw pain, back pain, and infection. The procedure changes the way the cat’s paws hit the ground, causing the animal to feel pain in its toes — this can lead to more pain in their hips, legs, and spine.

Aggression

Cats are prone to excess aggression and biting after being declawed. The animal’s claws are used to defend itself, so the lack of its ability to defend creates insecurity within the cat. Heightened aggression is a way cats tend to overcompensate for their missing claws.

Alternatives to declawing

Destructive scratching can be frustrating, but proper training and other methods can help. If you’re looking for ways to channel your cat’s scratching into a healthy habit, consider these options to prevent destructive scratching:

Trimming your cat’s nails– This tutorial can provide some guidance on how to safely trim your cat’s nails. Make sure to consult your veterinarian before trying it by yourself.
Scratching Post– Scratching posts can be a great alternative for cats to use instead of destroying furniture. These posts and toys can come in many shapes and sizes, which makes it easy to find one your cat likes! Cats can easily be trained to use them by rubbing catnip or cat oil, or simply with pure instinct alone.
Nail caps– Nails caps are placed over the cat’s nails and are used to prevent destructive scratching. They come in various colors, which make them easy to spot if they happen to come off.

Tap the three affiliate links below to explore some claw focused alternatives:

Laws about Declawing Cats

In March of 2021, the city of Austin passed a cat declawing ban and was the first city in Texas to do so. But in 2023, the ordinance was soon overturned with the passage of HB 2127. The law bans a municipality from regulating the practice of veterinarians within the city limits. In 2023, HB 1348 was also filed by Rep. Stucky, a Texas state representative and veterinarian, and it sought to prevent a patchwork of regulations for the practice of veterinary medicine in Texas by providing for a prohibition against a municipality regulating declawing. Since HB 2127 passed, this bill died during the legislative process.

Declawing is a harmful and inhumane procedure that alters the functionality of the cat’s paw, and shortens their lifespan.

Links

Keep those claws! Why cats need them

Declawing Cats