What Should You Know About The Feline Declawing Procedure?

Many cats are affectionate, making them wonderful pets. However, even the friendliest cat may attack when it feels frightened. Cats with aggression issues are even more likely to attack people and other animals.

Cats primarily use their front claws to attack. These sharp claws can cause quite a bit of damage, opening wounds that may become infected. If your cat has a habit of scratching you or your furniture, you may consider declawing as an option. Declawing is a surgical procedure performed by a veterinarian. Here are four things that cat owners should know about the declawing process:

1. Your cat's paw pads will be left intact.

During the declawing process, a veterinarian will remove your cat's front claws. They will also remove the small bone that supports your cat's claws, which will prevent the claws from growing back. In the past, a portion of your cat's toe pads could be removed as well. However, veterinary medicine has advanced, and now a cat's claws can be removed without damaging their paw pads. This may greatly speed up the healing process.

2. Your cat may benefit from declawing.

Some people have negative feelings toward declawing. However, it's sometimes the best option. If a cat is so aggressive that its owners are considering surrendering it to the humane society, declawing can provide a better option. Declawing can allow temperamental cats to remain with their families.

3. Your cat's behavior may change.

Cats have evolved to use their claws to defend themselves. When cats are declawed, their behavior may change to accommodate the modifications made to their bodies. For instance, your cat may no longer climb onto tall furniture. Some pet owners find that their cats resort to biting behaviors after their claws are removed. If you experience this, you can use training techniques to dissuade your cat from biting.

4. Your cat will need to use different litter while their paws heal.

After being declawed, your cat's feet may be tender for a short time. This is because they have just undergone surgery and will need some time to recover. Your cat may sleep for most of the day following their surgery. You can help your cat recover by trading their typical cat litter for a softer variety. Shredded newspaper may be ideal. Typical clay-based litters should be avoided during this time because small pieces of litter may get trapped in your cat's healing paws and cause an infection.

Contact a service that provides cat declawing for more information.