Onychectomy

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Declawedcat

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Онихэктомия

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Myllissa-Oscar the tabby cat with red paws nail covers-01

File:Larry the cat getting his nails trimmed (VID 20210408 123153).webm Onychectomy, commonly referred to as declawing, is a surgical procedure often performed on domestic cats. This operation involves the removal of the last bone of each toe from which the claw grows. While the procedure is primarily undertaken to prevent cats from scratching furniture or people, it has sparked significant ethical, health, and welfare debates.

Overview

Onychectomy is more than just the removal of the cat's nails. Since a cat's claws grow out of the distal phalanges, or the tips of their toes, the procedure requires the amputation of these bone tips to permanently remove the claw. This is akin to removing the tips of a human's fingers at the last joint. The operation can be performed using various methods, including scalpel, laser, or guillotine clippers.

Reasons for Declawing

Owners may choose to have their cats declawed to prevent them from scratching furniture, humans, or other pets. In some cases, declawing is considered when a cat's scratching behavior cannot be controlled through training or other means.

Controversy and Legislation

The practice of declawing has been met with significant controversy. Critics argue that it is inhumane, causing unnecessary pain and suffering, and can lead to long-term physical and behavioral problems. These may include pain in the paws, difficulty walking, and increased aggression or biting since the cat no longer has its primary means of defense.

Due to these concerns, many countries and several U.S. states have enacted laws banning or restricting the practice of declawing unless deemed medically necessary for the cat.

Alternatives to Declawing

Veterinarians and animal welfare organizations often recommend alternatives to declawing. These include regular nail trimming, the use of scratch posts or pads, nail caps, and behavioral training to encourage cats to scratch appropriate objects.

Conclusion

Onychectomy remains a contentious issue within the veterinary and animal welfare communities. While it may be seen as a solution to unwanted scratching, the potential negative impacts on the cat's health and behavior prompt the consideration of alternative methods to manage scratching behavior.

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