Declawing is when a cat's claws, many times only the front claws, are surgically removed. This usually requires general anesthesia and is done for younger cats. This can be done to a cat at any age, but recovery time may be lengthened as the cat ages. Declawing can be useful to families whose cat or cats scratch at the furnature or floor, but some people do not like the idea of declawing their cat. This is a decision each cat owner should make for themselves, based on their own unique situation. If declawing is not for your cat, nail clipping may also be an option. No matter what, cats who are declawed should stay inside for health and protection reasons.
