How to Care for a Newly Declawed Cat

Declawing is a surgical procedure done by a veterinarian while the cat is under general anesthesia. This surgery is permanent. Generally, only the front claws are removed because the hind legs aren't used as often for scratching. You have a responsibility as a pet owner to care for your newly declawed cat.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Newspaper or non-granular litter

1. Follow all care instructions given by your vet. These are specific to your cat and his situation.
2. Give all pain medications to your cat at the times specified by your vet. Your newly declawed cat is going to be in pain for at least a few days and these medications can help her to be more comfortable.
3. Replace the cat litter with either shredded newspaper or non-granular litter during the healing process. If he won't use anything except cat litter, call your vet for advice. One option is to let him use the regular litter and then gently wash all remnants from his paws after each use. This requires you to keep a close eye on your newly declawed cat to make sure you can rinse his paws off right away.
4. Keep your cat from jumping off of furniture and high perches. The landing from these jumps can cause bleeding and pain. After healing, she should be able to jump around again like normal.
5. Hold a paper towel around her paw if bleeding does occur. Use gentle pressure for 5 to 10 minutes. If the bleeding doesn't stop or if you think she injured herself, call your vet.
6. Keep your newly declawed cat indoors for the entire healing process. It's recommended that you keep him indoors even after healing is finished. While the back claws most likely still remain and can be used in emergencies, he doesn't have the full protection that an outdoor cat should have.
7. Call your vet if the paws look swollen or if bleeding occurs frequently. Also call if your cat has problems walking after 5 days or if his general health decreases.