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Articles: About Declawing

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Amputating a cat's toes is inhumane

   Usual Procedure:

• The cat is given a general anesthetic
• The fur around the paw is shaved off
• A tourniquet is placed around the leg
• Antiseptic is applied
• A guillotine type nail cutter amputates the first digit (see drawing #1)
• Bandages are applied to prevent bleeding

Scratching is a normal and natural behavior for cats.  It is a way of fulfilling strong instinctive needs to mark territory.

Scratching deposits secretions from glands in the feet that is smelled by other cats.  It also serves psychological and physiological need by providing comfort and expression in kneading and allowing valuable stretching and foot muscle exercise.

Risks are not only medical, but risks also involve behavior and safety.

Owners and Veterinarians have noted personality changes such as a withdrawal.  Others become nervous or fearful, using biting as their defense.  Some stop using their litter pans.  Stress from a defenselessness makes them more prone to illness.

Instead of Declawing. . .

Introduce a scratching post - one that is tall enough for complete stretching when scratching and stable enough so it won't wobble.  Train with a dual purpose.  Say a firm "no" to furniture scratching and take the cat to the scratching post.  Put it's front legs up on the post making scratching motions with them. Try catnip on the post.  Praise and pet your cat using the post.  Tape that is sticky on both sides can be applied to the furniture to discourage scratching on it.

Keep the cats nails trimmed using a clippers made for cats.  Do not use a scissors, since they can tear the nail.  Before cutting, look for the pink "quick" that runs down the center of the nail.  Clip about 1/8 inch from the "quick".  Have your veterinarian trim the nails the first time if you are not comfortable.

Large scratching post as pictured are available at the Shelter for $35.00

Or, if you would like to make one: instructions

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