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We all know the frustration of coming home to find your favorite chair in shreds, courtesy of your feline friend's scratching habits. This natural instinct for cats can be managed in ways that keep both you and your cat happy. While declawing might be suggested as a solution, it is a controversial and often painful procedure with significant ethical concerns.
In fact, the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) discourage declawing, noting that it is ethically controversial and not medically necessary for cats in most cases. Here at Embrace Pet Insurance, we also do not endorse or recommend declawing cats.
The purpose of this article is to educate and inform pet owners about the financial, procedural, and ethical aspects of declawing, particularly the costs of laser versus traditional methods. More importantly, we will introduce effective and humane alternatives to declawing that respect your cat's natural behaviors. Whether you are weighing the pros and cons of declawing and researching about the cost of laser declawing compared to traditional declawing, or just seeking to better understand your cat's behavior, this guide will help you make a compassionate and informed decision for your beloved pet.
What is Declawing?
Declawing, also known as onychectomy, is a surgical procedure performed under anesthesia that involves cutting or removing part or all of the last bone in each of a cat's toes. This procedure is typically requested by pet owners to prevent cats from scratching furniture or people. However, it is important to understand the full implications of this surgery, including the cost, methods, and potential consequences.
How Much Does It Cost to Declaw a Cat?
The cost to declaw a cat varies depending on the method used and your location. Here is a breakdown of the average costs:
Traditional declawing methods: Typically range from $100 to $250 (depending on your location and whether your cat is already under sedation for another procedure).
Laser declawing: Usually starts around $250 and can go up to $400.
It is important to note that these prices may not include additional fees such as pre-surgical exams, pain medications, or follow-up care. Always consult with your veterinarian for a complete cost estimate.
Methods of Declawing Cats
There are several methods used for declawing cats:
Laser Declawing: A medical-grade CO2 laser is used to amputate the toe at the first joint past the nailbed.
Scalpel Method: Uses a scalpel blade to amputate the toe at the first joint.
Guillotine Method: This method, which has largely fallen out of favor in the veterinary community, uses either sterilized nail trimmers or a bone cutter to amputate the toe at the joint.
Is Laser Declawing Better?
Laser declawing is often marketed as the most humane method for declawing. Proponents claim that it causes less trauma, seals nerve endings for reduced pain, and results in less bleeding. However, research shows mixed results:
Some studies indicate that laser declawing causes less initial pain (1-2 days post-surgery) compared to other methods.
But, after about six days post-surgery, pain levels were found to be similar across all methods, as declawing is inherently painful.
Overall, cats declawed with lasers showed slightly fewer signs of pain compared to those declawed with scalpels.
While it's often presented as a less invasive option, it's crucial to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and recovery process with a veterinarian to make an informed decision. Laser declawing is typically more expensive than traditional declawing methods.
Ethics of Laser Declawing a Cat
Regardless of the method used, all declawing procedures were found to be painful and can lead to complications. Although laser declawing has been shown to reduce the rate of regrowth and certain issues, such as bathroom accidents outside the litter box, problems still occur. The risk of lifelong consequences, including chronic pain and the loss of natural scratching behavior, remains high with any declawing method.
Scratching is a normal, instinctual behavior for our cats. They scratch to keep their claws healthy, communicate, and relieve stress. But declawing, which involves removing the claws, prevents cats from engaging in this natural activity.
Short-Term and Long-Term Consequences of Declawing
No matter the method used, declawing is painful and can lead to the following short-term and long-term consequences for your furry friend.
Short-term complications:
Pain and lameness or trouble walking: Cats may experience significant discomfort and difficulty walking for several days to weeks after the procedure. This can manifest as reluctance to move, limping, or favoring certain paws.
Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal immediately after surgery, but excessive or prolonged bleeding can occur, potentially requiring additional veterinary intervention.
Poor appetite: Pain and stress from the procedure can cause cats to lose interest in food, which can lead to weight loss and slower healing if not addressed promptly.
Personality changes: Cats may become more withdrawn, irritable, or less playful due to pain and discomfort. Some may even show signs of depression or anxiety.
Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of bacterial infection at the surgical site. Signs can include swelling, redness, discharge, or fever.
Sluggishness: Cats may be less active and sleep more than usual as they recover from the surgery and anesthesia.
Idiopathic cystitis or trouble urinating: Stress from the procedure can trigger urinary issues, including difficulty or pain when urinating, frequent urination, or blood in the urine.
One scientific study showed that regardless of the pain medication used, cats were still unable to completely use their legs normally within one to two weeks after the procedure. This highlights the significant impact declawing can have on a cat's mobility and comfort, even with appropriate pain management.
Long-term problems:
Regrowth of one or more claws: If any part of the nail bed is left behind during surgery, claws can regrow. These regrown claws are often deformed and can cause pain or difficulty walking.
Lameness or trouble walking: Some cats may develop a permanent altered gait or experience ongoing discomfort when walking, especially on hard surfaces.
Chronic pain in feet, legs, or back: The altered biomechanics resulting from declawing can lead to long-term pain not just in the paws, but also in the legs and back as the cat's body compensates for the change.
Self-barbering or pulling out hair: Chronic pain or discomfort can lead to overgrooming or pulling out fur, especially around the affected paws or legs.
Idiopathic cystitis: Some cats may develop chronic urinary issues, possibly due to ongoing stress or changes in behavior following declawing.
Litter box avoidance: Pain or discomfort in the paws can make digging in litter uncomfortable, leading some cats to avoid the litter box and eliminate in inappropriate places.
Toe deformities: The amputation can sometimes lead to long-term changes in toe structure, causing visible deformities or ongoing discomfort.
Increased aggression or biting: Without claws as a first line of defense, some cats may resort to biting more frequently when they feel threatened or uncomfortable.
Studies have shown that up to 50% of cats, which was half of the cats that got declawed experienced short-term complications. And, up to 10% of cats have been reported with claw regrowth that led to long-term issues.
These long-term complications can significantly impact your cat's quality of life and may not become apparent until months or even years after the declawing procedure. It is important for you, as responsible pet owners, to be aware of these potential issues when considering declawing and to monitor your cats closely for any signs of these problems if declawing has been performed on them.
Alternatives to Declawing
There are a variety of alternatives to declawing that you should consider before looking into a declawing procedure:
Provide Appropriate Scratching Surfaces: Place tall scratching posts and pads in various locations to encourage scratching in the right places and ensure different height levels to cater to your cats' preferences for stretching and scratching.
Use Catnip: Encourage use of scratching posts and pads by sprinkling catnip on them.
Provide Environmental Enrichment: Introduce food puzzles and increase playtime to reduce stress-related scratching. By engaging your cat with toys and interactive activities, you can help keep them stimulated.
Use Pheromone Diffusers: Use products like Feliway® to help calm your cats and reduce scratching behavior.
Regular Nail Trimming: Trim your cat's claws regularly to minimize damage from scratching.
Nail Caps: Apply synthetic nail caps, such as Soft Paws®, over your cat’s claws to protect furniture without the need for resorting to surgery.
If your cat’s scratching seems excessive or out of control, it’s a good idea to check with your vet. They can help rule out any medical issues and suggest ways to manage the behavior. It is by looking into these options that you can keep both your cat’s well-being while protecting your home.
Protecting Your Cat and Your Finances
Declawing is a serious decision that can significantly impact your cat's quality of life. While it's essential to consider all options for managing your cat's scratching behavior, protecting their overall health is paramount. We understand the challenges pet parents face in making healthcare decisions for your furry family members.
Our cat insurance plan offers comprehensive coverage for unexpected accidents and illnesses, providing peace of mind in case of emergencies. Unexpected veterinary bills can be stressful, but with pet insurance, you can focus on your cat's recovery without worrying about the financial burden.
For routine care, an optional wellness plan can be added to your insurance policy, helping you budget for preventive care like vaccinations, dental cleanings, and, importantly, regular nail trims. Consistent nail care is crucial for your cat's comfort and can help alleviate some scratching issues. Our wellness plans can also help cover the cost of behavioral consultations, providing guidance on managing your cat's scratching behavior without resorting to declawing. By investing in your cat's health and well-being, you're taking proactive steps to ensure a long, happy life for your furry friend.
The Indoor Cat Debate of Declawed Cats
One important consideration that often comes up in the declawing discussion is whether cats should be kept indoors or allowed outdoors. Many veterinarians and animal welfare organizations recommend keeping your cats indoors for their safety and the protection of local wildlife. However, if you choose to declaw your cat, it is important to commit to keeping them indoors permanently. Declawed cats lack their primary means of defense and are at a significant disadvantage if they encounter other animals or need to escape danger.
The Veterinary Perspective
The veterinary community is divided on the issue of declawing. While some veterinarians continue to offer the procedure, many are moving away from it due to ethical concerns and potential long-term complications. Several veterinary associations, including the American Association of Feline Practitioners, now discourage declawing except as a last resort for medical reasons. Always discuss the pros and cons with your veterinarian before making a decision.
Making the Best Choice for Your Feline Friend
Declawing your cat is a major decision that comes with potential risks, costs, and long-term consequences. Whether you are considering laser declawing or traditional methods, it would be best to weigh all aspects carefully. The cost to declaw a cat can be substantial, but the potential impact on your cat's well-being is even more important to consider.
Once again, here is your friendly reminder that scratching is a natural and important behavior for cats. But don’t fret, because with patience, creativity, and the right approach, you can usually find ways to live harmoniously with your cat while protecting your furniture. Explore the alternatives and do not hesitate to seek advice from your veterinarian or a feline behaviorist.
However, if you have already decided that declawing is necessary, make sure to work with an experienced veterinarian who uses modern pain management techniques and offers excellent post-operative care. By exploring all the options while staying informed and knowledgeable, you can make the best choice for your beloved cats who are counting on you to be their best advocates and make choices that prioritize their well-being. With the right approach, you can nurture a strong bond with your furry friend and maintain a peaceful, happy home. Surely your dedication and love will bring the best out of your cat, creating countless joyful memories together!