What is cat declawing? Is it painful or inhumane for my kittens?

Question

I am going to adopt two kittens. (One female, one male). My mother has given me an ultimatum that they must be declawed. Can you explain the procedure because from my understanding it is inhumane to get a cat declawed. They will be inside only cats so the risk of them getting into a fight with another animal will be minimal except with each other or my small mixed breed dog. The dog is extremely hyper but also eger to meet new friends. Will declawing them harm them ? Will they feel pain? Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

Lauren Barry, BVSc, MRCVS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hi there, de-clawing is becoming less and less common as vet's are now realizing the permanent damage that is done to cats paws. The surgery is done under general anesthesia and using either a laser or a scalpel, the last bone of each toe is amputated as this is attached to the nail bed. The skin is closed with skin glue or sutures and bandages are applied. The cat is left with very painful feet for weeks to months afterwards, and it changes how she walks on her pads. The big corporate vet group Banfield has now stopped performing this surgery. It is also illegal in the UK, and banned in some cities like Los Angeles. Instead, you can teach your cats to allow frequent nail trims at home, or you can apply soft paws, which are little caps glued over the sharp nail.

What is cat declawing? Is it painful or inhumane for my kittens?

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