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Declawing

Scratching is an instinctive behavior in cats, but it can cause harm to your family and/or destruction of household items. If alternative methods have been unsuccessful, Animal Health Care Center can help. Our doctors utilize a surgical laser, Photobiomodulation therapy, and a multimodal approach to pain management to make the declawing process as safe as possible while managing post-operative pain for our patients.

What Is Declawing?

Declawing is the surgical amputation of a cat’s third phalanges and the attached claws. Most often the procedure is performed on the front paws only, but sometimes all four paws are done.

Effects of Declawing

Before deciding to get your cat declawed, consult with our veterinarian to learn about the benefits and effects the procedure may have on your animal.

Positive

In most cases, the declaw procedure is performed as an alternative to outdoor housing, relinquishment to shelters, or euthanasia.

Negative

Surgical complications such as hemorrhage, anesthetic complications, wound dehiscence, and infection.

Behavioral changes such as failure to use the litter box.

Alternatives to Declawing

Frequent nail trims

Soft Paws application

Providing acceptable scratching areas for scratching (scratching posts, toys, boards)

 

Declawing should not be a first line of defense against scratching behavior in cats

Our doctors and staff are happy to discuss behavioral modification and other alternatives with you, and if/when those alternatives have been exhausted, we are here to help you make the best decision for your cat and your family.

Visit Us Today for Cat Declawing Services

If your cat’s damage is making you frustrated every day, visit us at Animal Health Care Center in Madison, AL to learn more about declawing and other options. You can also make an appointment with our veterinarian by calling (256) 461-8440.