can you have cats declawed

Declawing is outlawed in many developed countries, but not the US and most of Canada. However, many American veterinary associations are opposed to declawing, except as a last resort. Before you resort to declawing your cat, try training it first. Yes indeed, cats can be trained.

Give your cat a manicure

In addition to trimming your kitty’s claws, applying Soft Paws (small plastic nail caps) can also help. These covers are glued over the nail so your cat can scratch but not actually sharpen their claws. They are not permanent and need to be replaced every 4-6 weeks. Soft Paws also come in a variety of colors so your pet can look fabulous.

Where is declawing cats illegal?

Most of the European Union, Australia, the United Kingdom, Brazil, New Zealand, Israel, and many other countries prohibit cat declawing because they believe it to be needless and cruel.

In Canada, declawing cats is presently permissible at the federal level. However, the following provinces have made it illegal:

Alberta
British Columbia
Manitoba
Newfoundland and Labrador
New Brunswick
Nova Scotia
Prince Edward Island

In 2003, West Hollywood, CA, became the first city in the United States to ban cat declawing, and numerous other cities around the country have since followed suit. In 2019, New York became the first state to do so. It is joined only by Maryland, which passed a bill in March 2022 to ban declawing. Other states could soon follow suit, however — a bill to ban the practice was proposed in Massachusetts state house in May 2023.

While declawing is still legal in most states, the Humane Society has posted the following statement to their website: “The Humane Society of the United States opposes declawing except for the rare cases when it is necessary for medical purposes, such as the removal of cancerous nail bed tumors.”

Thankfully, there are a lot of non-declawing options available for cat owners that can save both your bond and your cat’s paws.

Learn how to trim cat claws

Cat claw trimming is beneficial for your cat’s health in addition to helping to preserve your furniture and skin. Your cat’s nails may grow to the point where they become difficult for him to walk if he is unable to regularly wear them down on his own. In some cases, claws risk growing into the paw pads.

Your cat may need some time to get used to having his claws clipped, but most cats eventually come to terms with the procedure. Before beginning, you might also want to discuss with your veterinarian the possibility of receiving an in-person tutorial, or you could begin with having your cat groomed professionally.

FAQ

Is it OK to declaw an indoor cat?

It is not recommended and unnecessary to declaw a cat (both indoor and outdoor). The reason for this is; the procedure itself means amputation. This operation involves surgically removing the end bones of the cats toes, in order to remove the entire claw.

Which states is it illegal to declaw cats?

There are only two states in the country where it is illegal to declaw a cat. The first state to ban this practice was New York. New York passed a comprehensive ban on this procedure in 2019. The second state was Maryland, which passed a similar ban in 2022.

Is it humane to declaw a cat?

Sensory and motor nerves are cut, damaged and destroyed. Recovery from the surgery is a slow and painful process. This procedure can hamper the sensations and enjoyment involved in walking, running, springing, climbing and stretching. “Declawing is an inhumane, unnecessary procedure that has many alternatives.

How much does it cost to have a cat declawed?

A declawed cat might stop using his litter box to minimize soreness in his feet. Surgery can be expensive, including a physical exam to determine the cat’s general health, the procedure itself, anesthesia, antibiotics, and possibly an overnight stay. The cost can range from $600 to $1,800.