Problems with Declawed Cats

Declawed cats face some problems that other cats don't face. Here are some of those problems and what to do about them.

Declawed cats might bite, may have problems with the litter box and have troubles with jumping and balance that other cats don't face. Let's look at these problems, their causes and what to do about them.

Let's discuss what happens when a cat is declawed, and perhaps some of these problems will make more sense. Whe a cat is declawed, it's a major operation. Look at your hands. The outmost knuckle with a fingernail on it is the same for a cat with claws. There is a joint that has a protruding claw. That knuckle is amputated or completely removed. It is very important to keep the paws bandaged securely with stiff bandages for 10 days or more when you have your cat declawed.

Biting

A cat without claws cannot let you know that it is unhappy like a cat with claws might. It's claws are not there, so it might bite instead. It's important to understand just Why your cat is biting. Cats will bite as a kiss, as discipline, and when they have no claws, to express displeasure.

Pay attention to your cat - watch her tail, eyes, ears and other expressive demeanors - is she unhappy with you or is she saying "I Love You" with that nibble? Is she aggressively biting or just giving you a peck?

Missing Litter Box

A declawed cat may miss the litter box more often - particularly when newly declawed. The sand hurts the sore spots, and this can drive a cat a way from the litter box. It is often suggested that you strip up some newspaper or other soft substance and put that in the box for your cat. This works fairly well. Another thing you might try is play sand, which you can get from the building supply store. Play sand is finer than all-purpose sand, but you might try that if play sand is not available. Once the paws have healed well, you might try some premium clumping litter. You want smallish pieces. Regular clay sand has sharp edges which can hurt your cats remaining toe joints.

Problems with Jumping and Balance

Your cat uses claws to stretch out. Part of "sharpening claws" on furniture is really stretching its back and working muscles.

Jumping Cats often try to catch the edge with claws if it has mis-judged the distance. It helps the cat to land and to stop sliding and come to a stop gracefully. Other cats use the back claws as part of their launching mechanism. If you do declaw your cat, please leave the rear claws. Be sure that your cat has secure landing areas in most cases. You can't completely protect and shield your cat from sliding on landing, but anything you do will be noticed by your cat.

Balance Declawing your cats is like taking off your toes, so think of always leaning forward, even when you are upright! Women in heels can relate, but men might not. Anyway, the balance is affected, and your cat might fall when on narrow perches, such as windowsills, the top of chair backs, or the railing on the balcony. Watch your cat when it's in dangerous areas. Try to protect your cat from falls when outside, by supervising closely. Related Pages

An Article about Declawing Cats

Cat Development

Special Cat Furniture Items that Help

Contact Form
CatLover Magazine Subscription Form

footer for declaw problems page