Protecting Paws: Why We Don’t Perform Declaws

At our veterinary clinic, our mission is to support the long-term health, comfort, and wellbeing of every pet we see. One question we are occasionally asked is whether we perform declawing procedures for cats. The answer is no — and we’d like to share why.

Declawing has become an increasingly controversial procedure in veterinary medicine, and many clinics (including ours) have chosen to no longer offer it. In fact, many regions have banned it entirely.

What Is Declawing?

Declawing (onychectomy) is not simply a nail trim. It is a surgical amputation of the last bone of each toe — comparable to removing a person’s fingertip at the last knuckle. Because cats walk on their toes, this procedure permanently alters the anatomy of their feet.

Why Many Veterinary Clinics No Longer Perform Declawing

Across the veterinary profession, there has been a significant shift away from elective declawing. Many states, provinces, and countries have banned the procedure unless it is medically necessary (such as for cancer or severe injury).

For example:

• In the United States, several cities and states have prohibited declawing.

• In Canada, most provincial veterinary associations have banned it.

• Many European countries have prohibited the procedure for years.

Major veterinary organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Feline Practitioners, discourage routine declawing and emphasize non-surgical alternatives.

The reason? Research and clinical experience show there are significant potential downsides.

The Risks and Negative Effects of Declawing

While some cats recover without obvious complications, many experience short- or long-term consequences.

1. Pain and Surgical Complications

Declawing involves amputation, which carries risks of:

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Delayed healing

• Chronic pain

2. Behavioral Changes

Cats use their claws for:

• Climbing

• Stretching

• Defense

• Stress relief

• Marking territory

Without claws, some cats may:

• Become more anxious or defensive

• Bite more frequently

• Avoid the litter box due to paw discomfort

3. Long-Term Physical Effects

Declawing permanently alters the way a cat bears weight. Over time, this may contribute to:

• Arthritis

• Back pain

• Abnormal gait

Cats are designed to walk on their toes. Removing part of the toe changes their biomechanics for life.

Humane Alternatives to Declawing

The good news? There are many safe, effective, and natural alternatives that protect both your cat and your furniture.

We strongly encourage these options — and we’re always happy to help you implement them.

1. Routine Nail Trimming

Regular nail trims (every 2–4 weeks) dramatically reduce damage from scratching.

We can:

• Demonstrate proper trimming technique

• Recommend appropriate nail trimmers

• Schedule technician nail trim visits

When started early and paired with positive reinforcement, most cats tolerate nail trims very well.

2. Provide Appropriate Scratching Surfaces

Scratching is a completely normal, healthy feline behavior. Rather than stopping it, redirect it.

Offer a variety of:

• Vertical scratching posts (tall enough for full-body stretch)

• Horizontal cardboard scratchers

• Sisal-wrapped posts

• Multiple locations throughout the home

Placement matters. Put scratching posts:

• Near sleeping areas

• Near furniture your cat currently scratches

• In social areas of the home

Reward your cat with treats or praise when they use appropriate surfaces.

3. Encourage Natural Nail Wear

Cats naturally wear down their nails through:

• Scratching sturdy surfaces

• Climbing cat trees

• Playing with interactive toys

• Exploring vertical spaces

Providing:

• Multi-level cat trees

• Wall-mounted shelves

• Textured scratching ramps

…helps keep nails healthier and naturally blunted.

4. Nail Caps

Soft nail caps are temporary, humane options that cover the claws and prevent damage. They:

• Do not interfere with normal claw extension

• Last several weeks

• Can be applied at home or by our staff

These are particularly helpful during training or transitional periods.

5. Behavioral and Environmental Support

Sometimes scratching increases due to stress or boredom. Environmental enrichment can significantly reduce unwanted scratching.

Consider:

• Daily interactive play sessions

• Puzzle feeders

• Rotating toys

• Providing safe hiding spaces

  
  

If scratching is excessive or anxiety-driven, we’re happy to discuss behavior support options tailored to your cat.

Our Commitment to Compassionate Care

We understand that unwanted scratching can be frustrating. Our goal is not to dismiss those concerns — it’s to offer safer, long-term solutions that protect your home and your cat’s wellbeing.

Declawing is a permanent surgical alteration with lifelong consequences. In most cases, scratching concerns can be successfully managed through training, enrichment, and routine care.

If you’re struggling with your cat’s scratching behavior, please reach out to us at Animal Medical Center. We’re here to help you find humane, effective solutions that allow your cat to stay healthy, comfortable, and fully feline.