To put it simply - declawing is an amputation of the last joint of a cat's toe. It would be like having each of your fingertips cut off at the first joint, below the nail.
Did you know this practice is considered so barbaric, it has been banned in many countries?
Pain is a definite post surgery issue, while infection, tissue death, bone spurs, nerve damage, joint stiffness, arthritis, lameness, and claw re-growth are all possible post surgery complications.
Your cat may become stressed because he isn't able to jump and play normally, or hold on with his claws the way he used to.
Regular litter cannot be used for several days after surgery, so shredded newspaper is typically a substitute. This unfamiliar litter, combined with the pain of scratching in the litter box, may lead to some cats stopping to use it entirely.
With their main defence mechanism taken away, cats may become aggressive and even bite, as they find new ways to defend themselves.
Getting rid of the cat - a sadly unforeseen consequence
I personally don't think most people considering declawing have any idea what's involved in the surgery, and I question how many vets give them the details.
They think the surgery will solve their problem, but in fact it may create others. If the cat stops using the litterbox, and/or becomes aggressive, what do you think will happen to the cat?
That's right - he will end up either banished to the basement, put outside, or dumped at the local shelter.
How many adoptable animals do you think make it out of shelters alive? What do you think the chances are of your cat being one of the lucky ones?
This cat will likely be killed, and whose fault is that?
Why cats need their claws
Clawing is not a behavioural issue, nor is it vengeance. It is just something cats do naturally.
Research suggests the main reason for clawing is communication. By repeatedly scratching the same few objects, they leave highly visible marks for other cats to see. The fact that cats have scent glands in their paws, means their smell is left behind as well.
Scratching helps remove the dead outer layer of their nails.
Clawing is part of how they fully stretch their backs and legs, and exercise the muscles in their toes.
Scratching and licking prevents their fur from matting, and removes dead skin and hair.
Protection from predators is a critical use. An outdoor cat cannot be left defenceless, and what happens if your indoor cat escapes?
There are alternatives you know!
Training
Yes, cats can be trained. Try saying "no" when he does something you don't want him to.
A little squirt of water from a spray bottle, as you tell him no, is also something to think about.
Keep nails trimmed
While shorter nails won't stop him scratching, it will minimise the damage. Have the vet or groomer do it, or let them show you how.
Scratching posts and climbing trees
They come in lots of styles, sizes, surfaces and prices, and all will give your cat something to scratch.
Don't hide them in the basement. They need to be visible, preferably in more than one room of the house. You can't expect him to go searching for a post when he's in the mood to scratch.
A little catnip sprinkled on it, may help get him interested.
Other deterrents
Special tape is available for use on items your cat likes to scratch. It's safe for all furniture, but an unpleasant feel for your cat.
Tin foil, or the sharp side of plastic carpet runners can be put on the furniture, until he learns.
Plastic nail caps
These plastic caps cover the claws, allowing them to scratch, without causing damage. They're temporary, so need to be replaced on a regular basis. Your vet can put them on initially, then you can do it.
Conclusion
You've read about the cruelty of declawing, and how painful and unnecessary this surgery is. You've also read about the alternatives available.
Please make the humane choice.
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