Declawing has long been debated among pet owner communities. After all, it seems like an easy fix to the frustrating problem of scratched furniture or preventing injury to humans. It seems reasonable, as on the surface, it can be misconstrued as the equivalent of removing very sharp nails– but it’s far from that.

In fact, veterinary experts and organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) widely discourage it, and the procedure is banned in several states and cities due to the harm it brings to the cats.

Here’s what declawing really involves— and why vets strongly advise against it.

What Is Declawing, Really?

Declawing (onychectomy in medical terms) is a surgical procedure that removes a cat’s claws, and it involves putting them under general anesthesia to remove the last bone of every paw’s toes, necessary to prevent them from growing back. But this procedure is rarely necessary, such as when a claw is damaged and causes them pain.

If you’re thinking that it sounds eerily similar to amputation, that’s because it is. It’s like cutting the tip off human fingers. It’s done by either laser or surgery, and requires a great deal of pain management even after surgery.

The healing time can take almost two weeks, and that’s only if there are no complications. During recovery, cats can’t use the litterbox, have a hard time climbing or jumping, and can’t clean their paws.

While some cats eventually return home or are just roaming nearby, many become permanently lost due to the dangers they encounter outdoors.

Why Do Vets Say Declawing Is Bad?

1. It causes pain and risks surgical complications

Since declawing requires general anesthesia and substantial recovery time from bone amputation, as a result, cats can commonly experience complications and effects like:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Stress and anxiety
• Overgrooming
• Soiling outside the litterbox
• Increased aggression towards other pets and humans
• Difficulty walking, playing, grooming, and performing other physical activities

Even long after healing, some cats can develop chronic pain or sensitivity due to nerve damage.

2. It can lead to long-term health problems

Declawing permanently changes a cat’s gait, as their weight will be distributed differently from then on. This can cause:

• Back pain
• Joint stress and arthritis
• Reduced mobility

Chronic pain significantly affects their quality of life and their relationship with their owners and those around them.

3. It often causes behavioral issues

Contrary to the motive of some pet owners who choose to declaw cats (which is to prevent them from harming other things and people), it may actually worsen their behavior in other ways. One of the biggest concerns vets highlight is behavior changes after declawing, as cats can:

• Bite more (since they can’t defend themselves with their claws)
• Avoid the litter box due to paw pain
• Become anxious or aggressive

According to a vet study from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), declawed cats are more likely to develop unwanted behavioral problems.

4. It removes natural and essential behaviors

Declawing is nothing short of disabling cats. Scratching is not “bad behavior”— it’s essential for them. After all, it helps them:

• Stretch their muscles
• Mark their territory
• Maintain claw health

Major veterinary organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), discourage declawing because it interferes with normal feline behavior.

5. It leaves cats defenseless

Remember that a cat’s claws are their primary means of defense and protection. Without them, cats may feel vulnerable and resort to means like biting instead.

This loss of defense can increase their fear, anxiety, and stress, which further negatively impact their overall well-being.

What To Do Instead of Declawing

Veterinary organizations like the AVMA and the American Animal Hospital Association discourage declawing unless medically necessary. For a very good, simple reason: Declawing offers zero medical benefits and only carries significant risks for the cat.

The good news is you don’t need to choose between your furniture and your cat. Here are humane alternatives recommended by vets:

1. Trim their nails regularly

Keeping claws short reduces the damage they can cause and their scratching intensity.

2. Get scratching posts and pads

Providing multiple different surfaces, like cardboard, sisal, and wood. Pay attention to what your cat may prefer. Some may prefer scratching pads rather than scratching posts, for instance. You can put them in places like near the sofa or move them to a spot they often occupy to redirect their behavior away from harming your furniture.

3. Use nail caps

These soft caps cover their claws and prevent scratches without causing them pain.

4. Focus on training and positive reinforcement

Rewarding your cat for using their designated scratching areas reinforces the behavior.

5. Provide them with environmental enrichment

Bored cats scratch more. Adding toys, climbing trees, and encouraging more playtime keep them entertained.

These options address the root of their unwanted behavior without harming your pet.

Final Thoughts

Declawing might seem like a quick fix, but it comes at a high cost to your cat’s health and happiness. From chronic pain to behavioral changes, the risks far outweigh the benefits. By choosing safer, vet-approved alternatives, you’re able to protect your home while giving your cat a better, healthier life.