TO DECLAW OR NOT TO DECLAW

j0181446.jpg (30465 bytes) Many owners struggle with this question. Before any decisions are made, it is important to consider all the information and alternatives.  The most important factor is whether or not your cat will be outdoors unsupervised or strictly indoors.  Declawing is not recommended for outdoor cats since they will be defenseless against attacks from other animals.

The procedure itself is done under general anesthetic and involves the removal of the kitten's claws and the surrounding tissue it retracts into.  This surgery is the most commonly done at the time of the spay or neuter which is between 5-6 months of age. We pay special attention to pain management for this procedure. Analgesics are given before, during and after declawing and additional pain control options are available.  There is now a more effective alternative to conventional analgesics.  It is called a Transdermal Fenatnyl Patch.

Click here to learn more about the Fenatnyl Patch.

After the surgery, the patient will be hospitalized for a period of 2 days.  Upon discharge the patient is sent home with additional pain medications.  A special litter called Yesterday's News or torn up paper must be used instead of the gravel type of litter to avoid infection and complications.  If any bleeding or swelling of the paws are noticed, the veterinarian should be contacted immediately. 

The vast majority of cats who undergo declawing surgery have a rapid and complete recovery. 

Alternatives to declawing: scratching post, trim nails regularly, behavioural techniques to combat scratching.   Also, there is a product called "Soft Paws" that may be right for you. Click here to learn about soft paws.

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