Cat declawing has been in the news lately and has ignited a lot of discussion. The procedure, which is also known as onychectomy, involves the amputation of the last joint of the cat’s toe joint. It is a procedure that is considered controversial and is often viewed as a cruel act. Although some people believe that cat declawing provides cats with a higher quality of life, there are other risks associated with the procedure that are often ignored.
The first unknown danger of cat declawing is the possibility of medical complications. Cats are renowned for their incredible healing abilities, however, declawing can result in serious infections and nerve damage. In some cases, the procedure will result in the amputation of too much tissue, resulting in a lifetime of pain and difficulty walking. There is also the possibility that the cat will suffer physical disabilities, such as the inability to walk on all four feet.
The psychological consequences of cat declawing are the second hidden risk. Cats, like humans, experience pain and fear and can be traumatized by the procedure. Even if the cat seems to be recovering well after surgery, it can still be traumatized by the experience, which can result in long-term psychological harm. In addition, cats that have been declawed are more likely to engage in aggressive behaviors such as biting and scratching because they lack their natural defense mechanisms.
The risk of behavioral abnormalities is the third hidden risk of cat declawing. Declawed cats can exhibit a variety of behaviors, such as increased vocalization, inappropriate elimination, and increased aggression. Cats that are declawed are also more susceptible to anxiety and depression, according to studies.
Finally, cat declawing can also result in physical changes in the cat’s body. The procedure can cause the cat’s claws to recur abnormally, resulting in a variety of health issues. In some cases, the claws can reach into the cat’s paw pads, causing bleeding, infections, and pain.
Cat declawing is a controversial procedure that can have serious consequences both for the cat and the pet’s owner. Before deciding to declaw your cat, it is important to consider the hidden benefits of the procedure. Though it may seem like a simple way to protect furniture and other items, it can do a lifetime of physical and psychological harm to your cat. Before making a decision, it is important to talk to your veterinarian and weigh the benefits and drawbacks.