Declawing Cats: What’s The Big Deal?

3 min read

If you’ve ever had a cat who uses your furniture as a scratching post, the idea of declawing might sound like a quick fix. But for your feline friend, the procedure is far from a simple nail trim—it’s a major surgery with lasting consequences. Many veterinarians and animal welfare organizations strongly discourage it, and in some places, it’s even banned.

In this post, we’ll break down exactly what declawing is, why it’s controversial, safer alternatives to consider, and what every cat owner should know before making a decision.

What Declawing Really Is

Declawing (also called onychectomy) isn’t just removing the nail—it’s the surgical amputation of the last bone in each toe. Imagine cutting off the last joint of each of your fingers. That’s essentially what a cat experiences.

The procedure is usually done under anesthesia, but recovery can be painful. Since cats walk on their toes, removing that last bone changes how they move and can cause long-term physical and behavioral issues.

Why Declawing Is a Big Deal

Declawing can have lifelong consequences, including:

• Pain & Lameness – Some cats experience chronic pain or develop arthritis.

• Behavioral Changes – Cats may become more aggressive or start biting since their primary defense is gone.

• Litter Box Avoidance – Sore paws can make using the litter box uncomfortable, leading to accidents outside the box.

• Balance Issues – Without their toes intact, cats’ natural gait and climbing ability can be affected.

  
  

These risks have led many veterinarians to refuse to perform the procedure unless it’s medically necessary (such as removing a damaged or cancerous nail).

Safer Alternatives to Declawing

Before considering surgery, try these humane options:

1. Regular Nail Trims - Keep nails short to reduce damage. Most cats tolerate trimming if introduced slowly.

2. Scratching Posts & Pads - Offer different textures like sisal, cardboard, or carpet to encourage healthy scratching.

3. Soft Nail Caps - Vinyl caps (like Soft Paws) can be glued over nails to prevent damage while allowing normal growth.

4. Training & Redirection - Reward your cat for scratching appropriate items and use deterrents like double-sided tape on furniture.

   
   

Important Considerations

Before deciding, keep these points in mind:

• Declawing is illegal in some cities and states, as well as many countries.

• Cats rely on their claws for stretching, climbing, balance, and self-defense.

• Once done, declawing is permanent—there’s no way to restore the claws.

  
  

Why This Matters for Pet Owners

💜 Well-Being First – Avoid unnecessary pr

ocedures that cause pain and long-term harm.

🏡 Better Behavior – Cats with healthy outlets for scratching tend to be happier and less stressed.

📚 Education Empowers – Understanding the reality of declawing helps you make the best choice for your pet’s health and comfort.