Scratching with the front claws is a normal, instinctive behavior for cats. The purpose of this activity is to remove old, worn fragments of nails. Although scratching is normal for cats, this behavior can be destructive and costly in the home. When routinely clipping nails and application of nail caps is not an option for cat owners, declawing is a possible solution.

If the procedure is done, a declawed cat should be confined indoors. This is due to the claws being its primary means of defense. House cats have little need for defense and can many times be more suitable pets because they no longer ruin furnishings or scratch people.

Surgical Procedures

Declawing (onychectomy) is performed under general anesthesia and consists of surgical removal of the nail bed. The feet are bandaged after the surgery for 24 hours while the cat is hospitalized overnight. After the bandages are removed, your pet will be able to walk normally, though tenderness may be evident for a few days. Your pets surgical sites may be closed by one of two different methods. A small amount of surgical adhesive or dissolvable suture material can be used. Healing occurs over the next 2-3 weeks while the adhesive wears off and/ or sutures fall out.

Home Care Exercise: Restricting exercise is difficult. However, you should prevent your cat from jumping as much as possible for the first 5 days.

Bleeding: Occasionally a cat breaks open one of the small scabs where the nail was removed. A few drops of blood followed by rapid cessation of bleeding is normal. Call the doctor if bleeding persists.

Litter Box: Use the dust-free litter for 10 days.

Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:

• Your cats feet appear swollen or bleed frequently
• Your pet is reluctant to walk or constantly holds a foot up.
• There is a change in you cats general health or behavior.