Rescue- Declaw Info

Why you shouldn't declaw your cat

Cat Haven Rescue | Published on September 23, 2023

What is declawing?

Declawing is the amputation, or the removal of the last bone of each toe in a cat's paw. Think of it as removing part of your fingers. The bone is removed using a metal tool such as a scalpel or laser. Whether the bone is removed by a tool or smelted off by a laser, both methods of amputation can cause long-lasting physical pain and issues for the cat.

Banned method

Declawing cats have become banned in many states within the US and in other countries. It has been deemed inhumane to have your cat declawed. Cat Haven Rescue opposes and does not allow the declawing of any cat unless medically necessary under the authority of a licensed veterinarian.

PRoblems caused by declawing

The following is a list of issues a cat can face when being declawed:

lameness

Pain in paws
Back pain
Complications walking
Depression
Tissue necrosis (dying tissue)
Nerve damage
Infection

Declawed cats experience severe pain as they walk. Their paws do not touch the ground with stability. In addition, cats experience pain and irritation in their paws when using the litter box. The unpleasant experience can cause cats to stop

using the litter box altogether. Some cats may start to bite as an alternative to pawing as a form of self-defense.

Why do cats scratch?

There are many reasons why cats scratch, (1) Cats scratch to remove the outer nail sheath from their claws (nail shedding), (2) to mark their territory (adding their scent), (3) to stretch their muscles, or (4) to defend themselves.

Just as you would see a tiger or lion scratching a tree at the zoo, or a cat swatting at a toy, scratching for cats is normal behavior and should not be looked at as bad behavior.

"What is my cat allowed to scratch?"

Questions to ask yourself when your cat scratches

"Did I play with my cat enough to burn its energy?"

"Are there enough places/objects for my cat to scratch?”

"Do my cats nails need to be trimmed?"

How to handle cat scratching?

First, we must understand what cats like to scratch. Cats prefer scratching sturdy, vertical, or horizontal surfaces/objects-- objects that allow cats to dig their claws. Try supplying them with surfaces/objects that they are allowed to scratch such as scratching posts, mountable scratching mats, scratching pads, and cat towers. You can incorporate a mix of wood, sisal (rope material commonly used in cat furniture), or cardboard furniture.

If you have concerns that your cat will scratch you. Trim their nails regularly or have your veterinarian assist you. You can also prevent scratching by tiring your cat out through play.

Continue to monitor your cat as they transition from tackling your furniture to their very own.

Bengal Cat Is Resting on a Platform of Cat Furniture.