The Impact and Effect of Declawing
Many veterinarians do not explain to cat owners what really occurs in a declawing operation. The procedure is essentially ten complex amputations. The cat must remain anesthetized for the entire procedure, increasing operative risk.
A cat's claw is a complex digit. It is not just a fingernail as it is with humans. The nails retract and are actuated by muscles and tendons. By cutting into these, you raise the risk of serious long-term physical and emotion impacts for your cat.
Declawed cats in effect are reduced in their ability to gain traction and to walk properly. They have to move with their weight shifted backwards from their natural posture. Claws exist for many reasons:
* To stretch out muscles and spine
* To help exercise and stay fit
* To provide defence against mistreatment or other animals
* To provide traction and grip in all sorts of environments
The consequences of declawing are larger than many people realize. Cat's behaviours can change. Declawed cats no longer have their primary defence mechanism and turn to biting as default behaviour. Physical ailments such as premature arthritis, cystitis, or perennial skin disorders can occur. Bungled surgeries can result in growth of deformed claws or serious infection.
Declawing removes the claw immediately above the "extending mechanism." The joint is cut off and the underlying tendon is cut.
