Declawing a 1-year-old Male Cat

by Clara
(Northern Michigan)

QUESTION

I have read your advise on declawing and taken to heart what this means for a 1-year-old male kitten that showed up at my door a few days ago. I feel it is thing only way, however, that I can welcome this fun-loving cat into my new home (with all new furniture!). I talked with the vet and he said that declawing is a viable alternative to 'no home at all' and he will be an indoor cat, except when he helps me in the garden. I have an appointment at a local vet hospital to neuter and declaw "Calico" in about 10 days.

What can I do to decrease the pain and risk of infection Calico could experience from both surgical procedures?

Thank you,
Clara in Northern Michigan


Dear Clara:

The only thing I can suggest is to use a vet you know and trust or who has come with very favorable recommendations from friends and family.

Come right out and ask the vet what his/her rate of infection is for these procedures. Ask what his percentage of deaths from anesthesia is per year. Ask what type of anesthesia is given for induction and maintenance. Ask if pain relief will be given and what kind and how often and will any be sent home with you.

Feel free to write back if you'd like and ask for my assessment of the answers you get.

Thank you for writing,
Dr. Neely