Is Declawing an Adult Cat Cruel? A Comprehensive Look
Yes, declawing an adult cat is generally considered cruel, causing significant and lasting pain, behavioral issues, and compromising the cat’s long-term well-being. This elective procedure, which involves amputating the last bone in each toe, should be avoided in favor of humane alternatives.
Understanding Declawing: Background and What it Entails
Declawing, or onychectomy, is a surgical procedure that permanently removes a cat’s claws. Unlike a simple nail trim, declawing involves amputating the last bone of each toe (the distal phalanx). This is akin to cutting off a person’s finger at the first knuckle. While some might see it as a solution to furniture scratching, the procedure has profound and lasting consequences for feline health and well-being, especially when performed on an adult cat.
The Declawing Procedure on an Adult Cat
The surgical process of declawing an adult cat can vary slightly depending on the veterinarian and the technique used, but the fundamental outcome is the same: amputation. Common methods include:
- Scalpel Blade: This involves using a surgical blade to cut through the joint and remove the bone.
- Guillotine Trimmer: This method uses a sharp, scissor-like device to sever the bone.
- Laser Declawing: Though often marketed as a more humane option, laser declawing still involves amputation, using a laser to cut through the bone. It may reduce bleeding and swelling initially, but the long-term effects are similar to other methods.
Post-operatively, the cat will experience significant pain and require pain medication. Their paws will be bandaged, and they’ll need special litter to avoid infection. The recovery process is generally longer and more difficult for adult cats than for kittens.
Why Declawing is More Problematic in Adult Cats
- Established Habits: Adult cats have already developed scratching habits, making retraining difficult and less likely to be successful compared to kittens.
- Increased Weight and Bone Density: Adult cats have denser bones and are heavier, making the surgical recovery more painful and potentially leading to complications.
- Psychological Impact: Declawing can be particularly stressful for adult cats who have already established their territory and routines. Losing their claws can disrupt their sense of security and lead to anxiety and aggression.
Alternatives to Declawing: Humane Solutions for Scratching Issues
There are many effective and humane alternatives to declawing that can address scratching issues without compromising your cat’s health and well-being:
- Scratching Posts: Provide multiple scratching posts of different materials (sisal, cardboard, carpet) and textures. Experiment to find your cat’s preferences.
- Nail Trims: Regular nail trimming (every 1-2 weeks) can significantly reduce the damage caused by scratching.
- Nail Caps: Soft plastic caps can be glued onto the cat’s claws to blunt them and prevent scratching.
- Behavioral Modification: Redirect your cat’s scratching to appropriate surfaces using positive reinforcement (treats, praise).
- Environmental Enrichment: Ensure your cat has plenty of toys, climbing opportunities, and interactive playtime to reduce boredom and stress, which can contribute to destructive scratching.
- Feliway Diffusers: These diffusers release synthetic feline pheromones that can help reduce anxiety and stress, potentially decreasing destructive scratching behavior.
Potential Complications and Long-Term Effects of Declawing
Declawing, particularly in adult cats, carries a significant risk of complications and long-term health problems:
- Chronic Pain: Nerve damage and incomplete bone removal can lead to chronic pain in the paws, causing lameness and discomfort.
- Infection: Surgical sites are susceptible to infection, especially if proper hygiene is not maintained during recovery.
- Lameness: Uneven weight distribution due to missing toes can cause lameness and arthritis in the paws, legs, and back.
- Behavioral Problems: Declawed cats may develop biting and hissing behaviors as they feel insecure and defenseless. They may also experience litter box avoidance due to pain associated with using the litter box.
- Regrowth: In some cases, the claw can regrow abnormally, causing pain and requiring further surgery.
Why the Animal Welfare Community Opposes Declawing
The overwhelming consensus within the animal welfare community is that declawing is inhumane and unethical. Organizations like the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) strongly discourage declawing as an elective procedure, advocating for humane alternatives instead. The procedure is already banned or restricted in many countries and U.S. cities.
Is it Cruel to Declaw an Adult Cat?: Summary
- Declawing an adult cat is cruel and unnecessary.
- Humane alternatives are readily available and should always be explored first.
- Prioritizing your cat’s health and well-being means choosing compassion over convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Declawing Adult Cats
Is it illegal to declaw a cat in some places?
Yes, declawing is illegal in several countries, including parts of Australia, Europe, and Brazil. In the United States, some cities and states have banned or restricted declawing. This trend reflects a growing awareness of the procedure’s inherent cruelty and the availability of humane alternatives.
What are the signs that my declawed cat is in pain?
A declawed cat experiencing pain may exhibit several signs, including limping, reluctance to walk or jump, excessive licking or grooming of the paws, changes in appetite, irritability, and aggression. They may also start urinating or defecating outside the litter box.
Can declawing affect a cat’s ability to climb?
Yes, declawing can significantly impair a cat’s ability to climb. Cats rely on their claws for grip and balance, and removing them compromises their ability to scale surfaces. This can lead to frustration, insecurity, and a reduced quality of life.
Does declawing impact a cat’s natural behaviors?
Yes, declawing interferes with a cat’s natural scratching behavior, which is essential for marking territory, sharpening claws, and stretching muscles. Depriving a cat of this instinct can lead to stress, anxiety, and behavioral problems such as biting.
What type of litter is best for a cat after declawing surgery?
After declawing surgery, it’s crucial to use a paper-based or pellet-based litter to avoid irritating the surgical sites. Avoid clay or clumping litters, as they can stick to the wounds and increase the risk of infection.
How long does it take for a declawed cat to recover fully?
The recovery time for a declawed cat can vary depending on the individual cat and the surgical technique used. Generally, it takes several weeks for the paws to heal completely. During this time, it’s essential to provide pain medication, monitor the surgical sites for infection, and prevent the cat from jumping or running excessively.
Can declawing lead to arthritis in cats?
Yes, declawing can increase the risk of arthritis in cats, particularly in the paws, legs, and back. The altered gait and weight distribution caused by missing toes can put excessive stress on the joints, leading to inflammation and degeneration.
Is laser declawing a more humane option than traditional methods?
While laser declawing may reduce bleeding and swelling initially, it still involves amputation of the last bone in each toe. Therefore, the long-term effects and potential complications are similar to those of traditional declawing methods. It is not considered a humane alternative.
Will declawing stop a cat from scratching furniture?
Declawing may stop a cat from scratching furniture, but it does so at the expense of the cat’s physical and psychological well-being. Humane alternatives, such as scratching posts and nail trims, are more ethical and effective solutions.
What should I do if my declawed cat is biting?
If your declawed cat is biting, it’s essential to address the underlying cause of the behavior. This may involve providing environmental enrichment, reducing stress, and consulting with a veterinarian or certified feline behaviorist to develop a behavior modification plan.
How can I help my cat adjust after declawing, if it has already been done?
If your cat has already been declawed, focus on providing a comfortable and supportive environment. Offer soft bedding, easy access to food and water, and plenty of playtime. Consider using ramps or steps to help your cat reach elevated surfaces. Monitor your cat for signs of pain or discomfort and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Is it cruel to declaw an adult cat even if they were already declawed as a kitten?
Even if a cat was declawed as a kitten, performing additional surgeries on an adult cat related to declawing (e.g., to correct complications) is considered cruel. The cat has already suffered the initial trauma, and further invasive procedures only exacerbate the pain and potential for long-term health problems. Focus on managing any existing issues with compassionate care.