Noah Sinclair
In most states in the US, it is legal to declaw a cat, and cat owners are allowed to remove the claws from their cats' front paws. However, declawing is a major surgical procedure that involves amputating the third phalanx (or third bone) of each digit, which is akin to cutting off a human's finger at the topmost knuckle. While some cat owners prefer to trim their cats' nails themselves, others may opt to have a veterinarian perform the procedure. In Pennsylvania, while there is no ban on declawing, the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) opposes the practice and recommends that veterinarians provide cat owners with alternative options before performing the procedure.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Legality of cat declawing in PA | Declawing cats is legal in most states, except New York and Maryland. However, Allentown in PA has made declawing cats illegal. |
| Veterinary opinion on declawing | The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) opposes declawing as an elective procedure. The American Veterinary Medical Association describes declawing as a "painful procedure." A veterinarian in Allentown, PA, also called the procedure "inhumane." |
| Alternatives to declawing | Regular nail trimming, training the cat not to scratch, or providing scratching posts. |
| Nail trimming methods | Using guillotine-style or scissor-style nail clippers, or trimming nails while the cat is wrapped in a towel ("purrito") or being cradled like a baby. |
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What You'll Learn
Declawing is a major surgical amputation
Declawing, also known as onychectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves the partial or full amputation of the distal phalanges or end bones of an animal's toes. The procedure is commonly performed on cats to prevent them from scratching and causing damage to furniture and other household items. While some cat owners choose to trim their cat's nails themselves, others opt for declawing as a more permanent solution.
However, declawing is a major surgical amputation that goes beyond simply removing the nail. It involves amputating the last bone of each toe, similar to amputating a human fingertip at the last joint. This can result in chronic pain, behavioural issues, and mobility problems for cats. The surgery also carries risks such as excessive bleeding, infection, and post-operative complications, including long-term lameness, behavioural problems, and chronic neuropathic pain.
The International Society of Feline Medicine and advocacy groups such as The Paw Project consider declawing unethical and equivalent to animal cruelty. They believe that veterinarians should only perform the procedure if required to manage a medical condition and that humane alternatives should be explored first. In some countries and states, there is a push for a ban on declawing, and it is already illegal or considered unethical by the veterinary profession in most of the world.
While declawing may be justifiable in rare cases to prevent euthanasia, veterinarians have a responsibility to inform clients about alternative, nonsurgical methods to address destructive clawing. These include regular nail trimming, providing scratching posts, and employing behaviour modification techniques. In cases where declawing is performed, proper pain management before, during, and after surgery is crucial to minimize discomfort and potential long-term pain.
In summary, declawing is a major surgical amputation that should be approached with caution and only considered when all other alternatives have been exhausted. The potential benefits of the procedure must be weighed against the risks of physical and psychological suffering for the cat.
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Scratching is normal feline behaviour
Scratching is a normal and beneficial feline behaviour. It is an instinctive action for cats, just like grooming or burying waste. Cats scratch to remove claw sheaths, sharpen their claws, stretch and exercise their bodies, and mark their territories. In natural environments, cats tend to scratch trees, wooden fences, sheds, or posts. However, indoor cats may direct their scratching behaviour towards household items such as fabric, carpets, or furniture. This can result in unwanted damage and frustration for cat owners.
While scratching is a natural behaviour for cats, it can create problems when directed towards objects that owners deem inappropriate. Cats may scratch furniture, carpets, drapes, or other household items, leading to destruction and potential harm to the cat's health. It is important to understand that cats are not deliberately seeking to destroy property; they are satisfying their natural instincts and needs.
To address this issue, cat owners can redirect their cat's scratching behaviour towards more suitable objects, such as scratching posts. By observing their cat's preferred target materials and scratching orientation, owners can choose scratching posts that match their cat's preferences. For example, a carpet-covered post may be suitable for cats that scratch carpets, while a post covered in sisal or rope-like material may be better for cats that scratch couches or nubby surfaces.
Additionally, regular nail trimming is important for cats, especially elderly or less active cats. Overgrown nails can pose health issues, such as curling around the paw and causing pain. While cats naturally trim their nails by scratching and biting, owners should still check their nails monthly and trim them if they become too long. Nail trimming can be done at home or by a veterinarian, especially if the cat has curved nails or a double-pawed coat that makes trimming challenging.
In summary, scratching is a normal and instinctive behaviour for cats, but it can become problematic when directed towards household items. By providing appropriate scratching alternatives and regularly trimming their nails, cat owners can help satisfy their cat's natural instincts while also protecting their furniture and belongings.
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Overgrown nails can be painful for cats
Overgrown nails can be extremely painful for cats. If they grow too long, they can start to curve and may puncture the cats' footpads, leading to discomfort, mobility issues, and infections. Longer nails are also more likely to get caught on soft surfaces, potentially hindering their ability to climb and causing injuries. This can be a particular problem for older cats who are less active and may not scratch as much as younger cats. Arthritis in older cats can also deter them from scratching.
To avoid overgrown nails, it is recommended that owners trim their cats' nails regularly, typically every 2-4 weeks for indoor cats. Cats typically have 18 claws in total, with five on each front paw and four on each hind paw. The inner, shorter claw on the front paws is called a dewclaw. Unlike the other claws, dewclaws don't usually touch the ground while walking, so they need to be trimmed regularly to prevent them from becoming overgrown and uncomfortable.
Trimming a cat's nails can be a daunting task, but it is important for the cat's health and well-being. There are several techniques that can be used to make the process less stressful for both the owner and the cat. One method is to wrap the cat in a towel ("purrito") and remove each limb one by one. Positive reinforcement and treats can also help to encourage good behavior during the trimming process.
If a cat's nails are extremely thick or overgrown, it may be necessary to take them to a veterinarian for trimming. Some cats may need to be medicated or placed under anesthesia for the procedure. In some cases, overgrown nails could indicate an underlying health issue, so it is important to consult a veterinarian if the problem persists.
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How to trim your cat's nails
Declawing cats is a controversial topic. The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) strongly opposes declawing as an elective procedure, as it involves the amputation of the third phalanx (or third bone) of each digit. This procedure can result in long-term lameness, behavioural issues, and chronic neuropathic pain.
Instead of declawing, it is generally recommended to regularly trim a cat's nails. Trimming your cat's nails can be a daunting task, but it is important for their health and wellbeing. Overgrown nails can cause significant pain, especially for elderly cats who are less active. Here are some tips on how to trim your cat's nails:
First, choose an appropriate location and time. Select a quiet area of your home, away from distractions and startling noises. You may want to play some soft, soothing music without bird calls to help both you and your cat relax. Try to choose a time when your cat is less energetic, as they will be less likely to struggle during the process.
Next, prepare your cat for the trimming. If your cat has long hair around their paws, make sure to pull it back and out of the way. You can also use a Feliway calming spray on the area or blanket 15 minutes ahead of time to help keep your cat calm and relaxed. If your cat is particularly anxious or fractious, you may need to wrap them in a towel or use a happy hoodie to restrict their movement.
Now, it's time to start trimming. If you have two people, one can cradle the cat on their lap like a baby, while the other can hold the paws and start trimming. Press down on the paw pads to get the nail to start sticking out. Use cat nail clippers or scissors-type clippers to trim the nail at a 45-degree angle, taking off just the tip of the nail. Go slowly and use firm, decisive pressure to avoid crushing the nail. Take off just a little bit at a time, especially if you're a beginner. Be careful not to cut the quick, which is the pink area inside the nail where the blood vessels and nerves are located.
Finally, reward your cat with plenty of treats, cuddles, or playtime to end the experience on a positive note. With patience and practice, your cat will become more accustomed to the nail-trimming process, making it easier for both of you.
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Alternatives to declawing
Declawing is a surgical procedure that involves the amputation of the third phalanx (or third bone) of each digit. This is the same as cutting off the end of a human finger at the knuckle closest to the fingernail. It is a painful procedure that can lead to long-term complications such as lameness, behavioural issues, and chronic neuropathic pain. As a result, many veterinary organisations, including the American Association of Feline Practitioners, have come out against the practice.
Regular Nail Trimming
Trimming your cat's nails is an important job that can be done at home or by a veterinarian. If trimming at home, it is recommended to train your cat to lie on its back and get comfortable with having its paws handled. Positive reinforcement with treats can be helpful during this process. When trimming, go slowly and cut only as much as the cat will allow.
Provide Scratching Alternatives
Scratching is a normal feline behaviour that helps condition the claws, mark territory, and provide healthy muscle engagement through stretching. Instead of declawing, provide multiple acceptable scratching alternatives for your cat, such as scratching posts or pads. Pay attention to the types of surfaces your cat prefers to scratch and provide similar textures.
Make Unwanted Surfaces Unattractive
You can deter cats from scratching unwanted surfaces like furniture or carpets by using double-sided tape, Sticky Paws, or aluminium foil. Citrus is another great deterrent—fill a spray bottle with water and lemon juice and spray items that are off-limits. Draping furniture with plastic sheeting or thick blankets can also help.
Training and Environmental Adjustments
Cats can be trained not to scratch unwanted items like furniture. This can be done by blocking access to unwanted surfaces and providing ample environmental resources for appropriate scratching. It is important to proactively teach your cat to scratch in places you want them to, rather than simply trying to stop them from scratching altogether.
Protect Vulnerable Individuals
If you have young children or elderly family members at risk of cat scratches, teach them how to properly handle and play with the cat gently. Regular nail trimming can also help prevent most cat scratches to humans.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is legal to remove a cat's front nails (declawing) in PA. Only New York and Maryland have banned the practice as of 2022.
Yes, you can remove your cat's front nails at home. However, you should be aware of how to do it correctly, and some cats may not tolerate it, requiring medication or anesthesia.
If you are uncomfortable with the process, your cat has double paws, hidden nails, or a short temper, it is best to leave it to a veterinarian. They can also advise on alternatives to declawing, which is considered a major surgical amputation.
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