Cat declawing, a procedure still performed in various parts of the world, involves the amputation of the last bone of each toe on a cat’s paw. This is akin to cutting off a human finger at the last knuckle, a comparison that underscores the severity of the procedure.
The Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association (HSVMA), in their article “Why Declawing is Bad for Your Cat,” says the standard method involves using a scalpel or guillotine clipper, followed by stitching or surgical glue to close the wounds. A more modern technique uses laser surgery, where a concentrated light beam cuts through tissue.
Both methods, however, can lead to lasting physical and behavioral problems for cats, including increased odds of back pain, litter box aversion, and biting.
Declawing is not just a simple nail removal but a significant surgical procedure with profound implications. The article mentions that the procedure is banned or considered unethical in numerous countries. In the United States, specific states and cities have also implemented bans. The Humane Society of the United States, along with the HSVMA, opposes declawing unless it is medically necessary, such as for the removal of cancerous nail bed tumors. These stances highlight the widespread recognition of the procedure’s adverse effects on cats’ health and well-being.
The Tendonectomy Alternative
Another procedure mentioned in the article is a tendonectomy, which involves severing the tendon that controls the claw in each toe. This procedure allows cats to retain their claws but prevents them from extending them to scratch. The HSVMA notes that tendonectomies often lead to complications such as abnormally thick claw growth, necessitating frequent and challenging nail trims. This can result in the cat’s claws snagging on various surfaces or even growing into their paw pads. Moreover, the incidence of bleeding, lameness, and infection is similar between tendonectomy and declawing, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in 1998.
The Consequences of Declawing
Declawing can lead to numerous health problems for cats. The article explains that removing claws alters how a cat’s feet meet the ground, often causing chronic pain similar to wearing an ill-fitting pair of shoes. Additionally, improperly removed claws can regrow, potentially causing nerve damage and bone spurs. The HSVMA tells us that these complications underscore the invasive nature of the surgery and its potential for causing long-term suffering.
Behavioral issues also arise from declawing. For instance, shredded newspaper is typically used in litter boxes post-surgery to avoid irritating the sensitive paws. This unfamiliar material, coupled with the pain of scratching, can lead cats to avoid using the litter box altogether.
HSVMA claims some cats may also become more prone to biting, as they no longer have their claws for defense and may be in constant pain. This behavioral change can be particularly distressing for cat owners and highlights the significant impact of the procedure on a cat’s quality of life.
Advocating Against Declawing
Veterinarians and animal welfare organizations are increasingly advocating against declawing. Dr. Christine Schelling, who once witnessed a cat’s extreme pain post-declawing, has since become a vocal opponent of the procedure. She founded declawing.com, a website dedicated to educating cat owners about the realities of this often-misunderstood surgery. HSVMA says this advocacy reflects a growing movement within the veterinary community to protect cats from unnecessary and harmful procedures.
Understanding Cat Scratching Behavior
To address concerns about cat scratching, it is essential to understand that scratching is a normal and vital behavior for cats. As noted by veterinarian Susan Krebsbach with the HSVMA, scratching helps cats stretch their muscles, shed the outer nail sheath from their claws, and mark their territory. This behavior is an instinctive need and a sign of a happy and healthy cat. Cat behaviorist Matt Wildman emphasizes that cats do not scratch to cause damage or misbehave; rather, they are simply meeting their natural needs. Therefore, providing appropriate outlets for scratching is crucial for cat owners, HSVMA tells us.
(To be continued)
