 The
New Hampshire Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals encourages
pet owners to seek alternatives to the declawing of cats. If you
are thinking about having your pet declawed, please take a moment
to review the following information. Why do cats scratch?
A Cats' claws are constantly growing and shed regularly similar
to our own. The part that sheds or frays is known as the sheath
and sometimes needs a little help coming off. Scratching on rough
surfaces such as furniture, wood or a rug helps remove the sheath
and expose new sharp claw. Scratching behavior is also used mark
territory. Small scent glands on the bottom of your cats' feet allow
it to leave tiny traces of scent that let fcvthe cat and other cats
know, "This is mine." Scratching can also provide valuable
stretching and foot-muscle exercise.
What is declawing?
Claw is an extension of bone and cannot grow back if the bone it
extends from is not present. For this reason the standard declawing
procedure calls for the removal of the claw and the first bone of
the toe. The operation is usually performed on the front feet only,
and is actually an amputation of the first bone and claw. As with
all surgery, pain and bleeding maybe experienced.
What risks are associated with declawing?
Medical risks
If the whole claw and first bone is not removed, misshapen claws
can grow back. In addition, if a bone fragment is left at the surgery
site, it may become a source of infection. Both, claw re-growth
and infections necessitate additional surgery. An incorrectly positioned
cut during declawing surgery can remove too much of the toe, taking
with it part of or the toes pad.
Behavior changes
Although there are no studies that support that declawing can or
does change the cats' behavior. There are a few things the NHSPCA
has noticed in some declawed cats such as biting or a change in
litterbox habits. Most of the behavior problems that we have seen
can be attributed to sensitivity or perhaps pain of the foot. Cats
also realized very quickly that a major resource for defending themselves
is no longer available and this may be why biting is developed as
a new defense.
Indoor or outdoor
A declawed cat should not be allowed outdoors. The natural ability
to defend itself or escape from danger is no longer available.
What are alternatives to declawing?
Introduce a scratching post
Buy or make a scratching post that's tall enough for the cat to
stretch completely when scratching, and stable enough so it will
not wobble when being used. Cover the post with a heavy, rough material
like sisal rope or low pile carpet. Make the post a fun place to
be by placing toys on or around it, or by rubbing it with catnip
and put it in an accessible area. If you are trying to discourage
the cat from scratching a particular piece of furniture, try placing
the post in front of it, gradually moving the post aside as the
cat begins to use it regularly.
Training
Encourage the cat to claw the right things and discourage him from
clawing the wrong things. Bring the cat to the scratching post.
Each time you do this praise the cat by petting and giving treats.
Spend time with the cat while it is on or near the post will encourage
the cat to continue the behavior. If the cat begins to scratch where
it is not supposed to, firmly tell it "No scratch," and
move the cat to the scratching post. Reward the cat with praise,
petting and treats.
Keep the cats' nails trimmed
Cutting your cats nails regularly will help remove the sheath and
control the amount of damage he or she may cause from scratching
the furniture. However, not every cat will tolerate a good trim.
Start now by getting your kitten used to having his feet handled
and nails clipped while it is young. With an older cat, it may help
to begin by handling the feet first. Then introduce the clipping
procedure by approaching the cat while it is relaxed (or even napping)
and clip only one nail each time. Praise your cat while you clip
the nail, and reward it with a treat afterwards. If you are in doubt
about what the proper nail length looks like, ask your veterinarian
to show you.
 The
only equipment necessary is a good pair of human style nail clippers.
Or nail scissors made specially for cats. Slide the blade onto the
nail you will be trimming. Before cutting look for the pink line
or "quick" that runs down the center of each nail. The
clipper blade should be placed about an eighth of an inch in front
of the "quick." Clip the nail swiftly and be extremely
careful not to cut into the quick.
 If
this happens, bleeding is likely. The bleeding usually will take
quite a while to stop without assistance. Use baking flour to "plug
up" the end of the nail.
If you trim a small amount of nail every couple of weeks, the
quick will recede and your cats' nails will stay shorter and
cause less damage.
SOFT PAWS
Soft paws are a great alternative to surgery, nail trimming or if
you just do not have time to train. These tiny vinyl "caps"
are easily glued in place over your cats' nails. Soft paws can save
you money and save your cat the painful experience of surgery. With
applications that only need to be re-glued as they wear off (usually
about once a month or longer), soft paws will end up being your
cats' best friend. The NHSPCA can even put them on for you.
The NHSPCA is against declawing if it is solely for the convenience
of the owner. We ask that all other options be explored to help
you establish and maintain a happy relationship with your cat while
keeping both your furniture and your friend intact. Declawing your
cat should be considered a last resort. If you have questions please
do not hesitate to call. 603-772-2921 ext. 110.
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