Laser Declawing
We recently got our second cat laser declawed. Our first cat it went pretty smoothly with only a slight infection afterwards. We had highly reccomended it because its supposed to be significantly less painful for cats and when they come home the only thing special you need to do for them is use a special kind of litter. They are not supposed to have any pain and there is not supposed to be any blood or treatment after the surgery. With our first cat that was pretty much the case but with our second cat after 3 days he was still favoring his paws and therefore we needed to take him back in. He is now on morphine and has broken open 4 of his wounds since his surgery. He doesn’t seem to care and I probably worry more then he notices it as it doesn’t slow him down. If I had to look at reccomending laser declawing I would still reccomend it I just would warn you even if there isn’t supposed to be any problems after the surgery it all depends on each cat that has it done some will and some won’t but it definitely does not seem to slow the cats down at all.
Tracy, what the hell does abortion have to do with declawing? That’s right, absolutely nothing! How can you even compare the two? As wrong as abortion is, the fact of the matter is that the fetus does not feel any pain until the brain and nerves are completely developed. In your comparison, it would be the same thing as declawing an unborn kitten.
Tracey,
Very well said!!!!!
I had my ragdoll declawed when she was spayed. I have very bad allergic reactions to cat scratches, and also have exotic birds who are out of the cage during the day. They enjoy playing together, but the risk was too high with her claws. I also had problems with her climbing up the pant legs of guests and my grandchildren.
She was jumping and running two days later as if nothing was done.
I have been a paramedic for years, and animals are no different then humans when it comes to medical procedures. Not all do as well for a variety of reasons.
Everyone is allowed freedom of speech, and the right to voice it. Some just do not know when not to cross the line.
Vickie
Jan,
GET A LIFE!!!! We all should be as “holy” as you!
I own a Ragdoll, and how dare you “preach” to anyone about ethics! You have done what all Ragdoll breeders have tried to avoid…having someone mix breed them. Making quite a “bundle” off that are we?
I am on the Board of a Exotic Bird Rescue. A large part of our mission is EDUCATION, not making people feel guilty for something they have done. Unless it is a cruelty case, and declawing is a personal decesion one makes on particular circumstances.
Some cats are NOT trainable, and not everyone wants everything in the house destroyed. This also effects “families”, not just the people, you are verbally attacking. INSULTING…DUH!!
Before you judge others, take a look at what you have done.
I will not respond back to you, because you are not worth my time.
You really need to evaluate your mental status.
People who are genuine about humans or animals, do not insult and condem people like you do.
Redhawk, that is the most ludicrous thing I’ve ever heard….how the heck do you know that “EVERY Step causes PAIN for the rest of a cat’s life”???? If you think we can’t tell that they’re really not in pain, how can you tell that they really ARE in pain? There’s no proof to either statement since cats can’t communicate to us and say “Hey Redhawk, I could really use an aspirin, my paws hurt because I no longer have the first digit of my toes!”
And for those who argue cats need their front claws to scratch and have to suffer from an itch they can’t scratch. HEEELLLO, have you ever seen a cat scratch with their front claws? NO, they use their back feet, always have, and always will.
I have a question for all you animal activists out there. How many of you have had abortions? How many of you are pro-choice? How hypocritical if you answer yes to these questions!!!! How do you feel about babies being ripped apart and burned alive in their mothers’ wombs because it’s inconvenient for the mother to have a child. TALK ABOUT INHUMANE! So, don’t even try to make people feel guilty for removing a cat’s claws in order to keep them as a safe and happy indoor pet!!! At least vet’s are kind enough to use anasthetics and pain medication. What about the poor babies! Tell me that! If you’re going to gripe and cry about being kind to all creatures great and small, at least be consistent!
I took my two cats to CAT CARE 770-424-6369 they are located in Marietta, GA. Its a nice office and they only specialize in cats. The laser-declawing was $200 per cat for the front paws. My cats are doing great. I think it was harder on me that it was to them. Honestly though if i would have had any other option i would have NEVER done it, but i tired everything else before making my decision and i just had to do it.
Where can this laser claw removal be done?? I live in Atlanta and can not find a place that performs this service.
Any help would be appreciated
I’ve seen folks justify declawing by saying “hey, we circumcise infant humans, so what’s the big deal about declawing cats?” Wouldn’t the better perspective be that circumcision is barbaric, and should no more be performed than declawing? Note: I’m not taking a stand either way, just noting that the logic appears to be backward. If you don’t see circumcision, a medical procedure with no clinically proven benefit, as barbaric, then of course you won’t see declawing as such.
I have a 6 month old cat her name is Callie. I am wanting to get her spayed and get the laser declaw done. I have heard alot of good things about it. I like the fact that you all are being honest about the fact that it really just depends on the cat if they will get an infection or not. I have been wondering if I am doing the right thing but I can’t have my house all tore up because of her and I love her soo much to get rid of her she is like my baby she follows me everywhere. She even loves water I thought that was weird ever since she was a baby she has gotten in the shower with me , my husband and even in the bath with me. One day i came home to find the water running in the sink here she turned it on.She is smart she is a calico:)she is my sweetheart:)anyway i am 99% sure I am going to follow through with these upcomming surgeries for her:)
Thanks!! Jennifer
I just got a 4 year old female cat from the humane society to be a companion to my male cat after his friend Emma died.
My cats were both declawed, but the one I got from the humane society wasn’t. She is very good w/ her claws and uses a scratching mat rather than my furniture, but unfortunately she does use them when jumping on things….such as my lap. This wouldn’t be that big of a deal, except I have found out the hard way I am very prone to infection. She jumped on my lap and pulled herself up the rest of the way using her claws, I had pj’s on but her claw still knicked me…a knick I tell you. Anyway, I was back and forth to the Dr 4X! The thing was so infected it was the size of a softball and they were worried it was MRSA staph infection. I was told I have to get rid or her or have her declawed due to my suspectability to infections. They even had me on 3000mg worth of antibiotics a DAY! It was craziness. Anyway, I still have a huge scar that is trying to heal, and I am scared to have her around me cuz of course she wants to jump up. It’s such a stress, and I hate to have her declawed being she is 4 yrs old, but I don’t want to bring her back to the humane society…she was there for two months before I adopted her and being a common calico cat, I don’t think she has much of a chance for readoption…and they do put cats down. The vet I usually go to costs $400 for a declaw (I have to do all 4 since she pushes off when jumping off of me which scratches me up too) but I found a different vet that does it for $100 w/o laser. In the past 3 months I have had over $3000 in vet bills w/ my cat dying and with the new cat needing multiple meds and vet visits for really bad ear mites and ear infections, and worms, and then infecting my cat w/ mites and worms…it’s all been a headache, but I want to stick it out and get her all straightened out rather than returning her after I invested so much…not to mention she has a health plan too which would cost me money to cancel. So, needless to say, I can only afford the $100 one but I am worried it won’t be the best and she will be mortified to be declawed. Ug, anyway, someone tell me it is ok to have her declawed and w/o the laser procedure. Thanks
To those interested in Laser Declawing in Los Angeles, Rainbow Vet in Burbank off Empire Ave. does the procedure. It’s about $500.
It’s obvious that this is a controversial subject, but I think it can go either way. Obviously the best choice would be to not have the surgery and use another method. But I believe even though it sounds inhumane, this procedure has been done for years and most cats go about their lives as if nothing happened. It sounds like in some cases cats do have after-effects, maybe arthritis and pain, which is sad. I have 2 cats, one was declawed before I got him and the other not declawed. Both are exactly the same, no difference. I don’t see sadness or bitterness in the declawed one, in fact he is more affectionate than the one with claws. Everyone needs to make the best decision for them. Also to the people on here defending animal rights, it’s commendable that you want to protect defenseless animals, but it’s ironic that you treat humans rudely and attack people’s individual rights. The emails on here with the most hate and attack are from the ones who love animals. Show humans some love too & be more accepting. Give your opinion in a respectful way, then let it go.
I have cat who is declawed. – I regret it. He is a feral cat and the vet threatened me and said I would get sued if I did not declaw him. I should have walked out. Apparently, when I left him with her and she tried to give him a shot- (he was getting fixed) he attacked her. I know he is a bit bigger and smarter than the average cat, but hey I think I would have fought back too. I raised him from the time he was so little he could not even hold his head up. His mom died on the side of the road- we speculated that a breeder may not have gotten what they wanted and dropped off mom and the kittens (we think there were only two). He is very intelligent, is as long as my torso, can walk on a harness, and was full grown by six months. He opens doors and has even very cleverly watched as we play board games – he and my sister fight like brother and sister- he waited until she moved her piece and then cleverly jumped to the board and knocked her piece off and took off. We all laughed hysterically. He is like my child and I have regretted it every day and it was wrong. He deserves better than that. I don’t care about the furniture more. I would throw out my couch to get his claws back. Since he has no fear of most other animals- I feel bad knowing that he could stand up to a large dog and be in trouble trying to defend himself. He will always be feral and rules even over the dogs in our house. Next time, someone tells me what to do with my animal- I will tell them where to go.
I suggest buying scratching posts and putting them next to the areas they normally scratch. Rub some catnip on it. Good luck.
I have two cats that i love dearly and they both have destroyed my new furniture, scratched my doors, walls, etc…
I am against declawing, but i have tried everything, sprays, tapes, scratch post in every corner, water (they like water) and i don’t know how to traing them if i am not on them 24-7. I don’t want to lock them up in a room, and i would hate to declaw them.
Soft paws are a great alternative that i have tried but they dont last very long. I still hate the fact of declawing them but i think i am going to have to.
Were can i find more alternatives?
I’ve worked 16 years now as a vet technician, so I have seen many declaws, both the old way and the new (laser).
I try to talk people out of it if I can, and most, who really care about their animal, will listen, and also thank me later. clawed cats trained with respect to their species are a totally different pet, and people used to declawed cats their whole life really notice this. Personalities are way better, their cats will play and stay younger far into their teens.
Decclawed cats, to me are maimed animals, it’s so sad to see people still doing this with all the helpful info out their, it really is.
Running and jumping like crazy??? Ohhhh Yeahhh…. Are these fals emails for REAL?
Don’t believe them people, they are NOT.
Don’t EVER declaw a cat or kitten, if you can’t or don;t have the simple intelligence it takes to manage them as they are …
DON’T GET ONE!!!!!!!!!!
Don’t worry Mimi. Every cat reacts a little differently after surgery. My 6 month old kitten was declawed a week and a half ago. The day he came home, he was holding his right paw up after walking. I checked with the vet just in case but he told me it was normal for the first couple days. He was right. That quickly passed, and kitty is again running and jumping like crazy. He’s back to his lovable, cuddly self.
Sue, Your information is very helpful. I am watching her and she seems better. Declawing was the safest option for us because my kitten has scratched my dog in the eyes and caused some injuries to him. I would of course not declaw a cat without reason, and my reason was safety. I also have small children. Hopefully my kitten and family can all enjoy a safe home. I would, like yourself, never surrender an animal to a shelter because of illness. We love her dearly and only want all of us to be happy.
OK, Sue, that is very admirable, so why the wicked, claws out retort? What does your dedication have to do with mine? Whose toes am I stepping on anyway? Certainly not anyone’s who respects the rights of animals. Certainly not anyone who morally and ethically maintain (unselfish) kindness.
Well, Jan, for your info, over the past 47 years I have had various cats and dogs, many with severe issues and I have never, ever given up one of these animals. I have dealt with each issue, some of them so traumatized they never fully recovered, but they are mine until they pass over. So keep your polluted meanderings to yourself.
Of course i can’t even fathom anyone putting their poor pets through tis because of their own laziness or refusal to educate themselves. It’s barbaric and unbelievable…but…they will learn, and later on, when they began seeing the REAL repercussions of their actions, too late, too late for kitty and too late for the owner-
they usually just end up putting them in the paper free to a good home, where they undergo more torture and problems with a new home that also does not understand the dire problems associated (sometimes later) with a declawed cat-or euthanized by the shelter who cannot find a home for a cat that is no longer a whole cat and doesn’t trust strangers. Shame on you (IF this letter is for real, and I doubt it- it is just free advertisement for vets with expensive laser machines that want to retrieve their money-LOL)
Mimi, I had Frankie laser declawed August 11 and picked him up August 12. He has been his normal self. In fact I have had to keep a close eye on him so he doesn’t do a lot of jumping. He has used his special litter without a problem, scratching it up to beat the band. I have not had one problem with him, acting like a normal cat. He had two doses of pain meds while at the vet and none since. In fact the vet would not have let me bring him home if he had pain.
I have a 5 month old maine coon cat. I adore her and struggled with the decision to have her declawed by laser. She is an indoor cat and of course refused to use the scrathing post not matter how much I tried to train her. She began to destroy the furniture and rugs. She had the surgury 4 days ago. Yesterday she began to shiver and had rapid breathing. I brought her back to the Vet. She had a >104 temp and was diagnosed with an infection. She was also spayed at the same time as the declaw surgury. The Vet said she did not know what was causing the infection.She seems better today, she has had 2 doses of antibiotics. She has pain in her paws and appears to have some nerve pain, ie; extenting her front leg quickly and shaking her paws after walking. I am terrified she may have nerve damage. Is this normal for her to be shaking the paws? Does anyone know if this is normal healing? Please if someone has any information please respond. Thank you.
As a change of pace, and, yes, to keep all you declaw advocates at bay for just a moment, please read what acual caring Veterinarians have to say among themselves…
(noticing in the past that those who attacked me do not use their REAL names for obvious reasons, I have chosen to leave out the names of these vets, as they would not apreciate your vicious attacks, also their comments are NOT made against YOU, but amongst themselves in REAL concern for the animal)
Below, please read the actual discussion between professional veterinarians (concerning pain and management)
International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management
From L.H S. DVM
I was surprised as I went through that entire discussion on declaws that no one ever mentioned the use of Soft Paws,which we use regularly, especially on kittens if the owner is thinking about a declaw at the spay/neuter. Also, what about the long term implications on the cat as regards altered weight bearing, as we have just amputated a weight bearing portion of their foot?
From Dr. C.N
I am somewhat surprised by some of the commentary I have read regarding declaws. And to be honest, I am uncertain as to how to reply. Although I am strictly a small animal Vet, I do not do declaws. Perhaps some of my bias against it has to do with culture, I was raised in Europe, where as you all know-tail docks, ear crops, declaws, shock collars, invisible fences (and in some countries choke collars) and the like are thought to be somewhat barbaric procedures. And further, the thought that these procedures are performed so routinely and unfortunately too often without the most optimal pain relief seems even more barbaric. I often times think of the phrase “and above all do no harm”-is that not our mission??? I feel that we are called upon to act in the best interest of our patients. Regardless of how I personally feel about these procedures-as professionals we are obligated to provide them with complete pain relief, most especially, if the pain we are inflicting upon them is to serve their owners sense of their best interest. Are we not???? I also feel that we need to take the time and inform clients what a declaw is. And as many of you have expressed-many clients are surprised that is it an amputation and not just a “short nailtrim” of some sort. And when informed-will decline the procedure.
Let me also answer some of the other questions that were raised regarding potential differences between Europeans and Americans (although of course, I shouldn’t speak for a whole continent).
I had NEVER heard of a declaw until I came to the US . Having lived both in S. America and Europe . I was astounded that such a thing was done, as were most of my friends/relatives when I told them about it (some were even vets). It also astounded me greatly that it seemed that people took it so casually. Most cats I grew up with were strictly indoors, people trained their cats against unwelcome scratching to the best of their ability. But in essence, a cat scratching, a dog barking etc are seen as NORMAL behaviors for those breeds and facts that you live with (And train against to the best of your ability). I should rephrase that— cats scratching, dogs barking are expected behaviors. “correcting” these behaviors surgically merely for your own sense of comfort and convenience is in essence seen as barbaric!
I apologize for my long e-mail, but felt the need to address some of the questions posted regarding differences between Europeans and American thoughts on declawing Thank you all for contributing to my growth
From Dr. F.G:
I do like these discussions because they are important to continually evaluating our profession.
I’ll preface my post with admitting that I’m speaking as an armchair clinician (meaning I’m not in clinical practice at the present time) and that I was trained in New Zealand where declaws are not legal – and I agree with that legislation.
If your argument is correct, then countries where declaws are illegal (i.e, New Zealand, UK, and others) will have, with regards cats, 1) worse human-animal bonds, 2) worse medical care and quality or homes, 3) more disease and trauma, and 4) poorer general care, than here in the US.
I can speak for New Zealand and say that is not correct. I suspect the same is for the UK and others.
Why is the US so different? Maybe there’s a good reason that I am just unaware of.
M.E.E. Dvm
Similarly, while 20 years ago ear crops and tail docks were common procedures here in the States, today – while not illegal as in other countries – most practitioners do not do them. In other words, cosmetic procedures are fast disappearing as cultural (and breeder/show folks) attitudes change and as the pool of practitioners able and willing to do them is lost to retirement and attrition. Similarly, it seems to me that this same trend has been occurring with regards to declaws, and will eventually, over time, continue to be reduced to a very low level of incidence, or perhaps eventually, eliminated. So you see, we Americans, while a little slow on the uptake sometimes, aren’t always as thick as we sometimes appear.
—————————-
This From a question and Answer forum on pets: The answer is not from a veteriarian, but from an animal behaviorist…(names left out)
How does declawing a cat effect it?
Question: Can a cat turn nasty from being declawed, most cats that I know are quite mean afterwards. is this common?
Thanks!
Answer: You meant affect, I am sure.
Absolutely DO NOT de-claw your cat. It is a cruel and horrible thing to do. You can teach a cat to be gentle with their claws, there isn’t any need to declaw a cat. There is a website that in detail, explains what declawing a cat REALLY means. This is coming from a vet mind you, so she knows what she’s talking about. This is the site: http://www.declawing.com/
“Declawing is not like a manicure. It is serious surgery. Your cat’s claw is not a toenail. It is actually closely adhered to the bone. So closely adhered that to remove the claw, the last bone of your cat’s claw has to be removed. Declawing is actually an amputation of the last joint of your cat’s “toes”. When you envision that, it becomes clear why declawing is not a humane act. It is a painful surgery, with a painful recovery period. And remember that during the time of recuperation from the surgery your cat would still have to use its feet to walk, jump, and scratch in its litter box regardless of the pain it is experiencing.”
It’s mutilation. If you can’t bear the responsibility of caring for a cat as it is, then you don’t deserve to be a cat owner. Anyone who does this, then claims to love their cat is just downright disgusting.
Congratulations!
You’ve both just joined millions of other cat owners who also found good reason to amputate part of their pet’s toes. How wonderful, kind, and inovative of you. And now there are thousands of other declaw advocates that will pat you on the back and tell you how OK it is and how you didn’t hurt your kitty one bit, and that you truly made the right decision. Bravo!
Well I won’t sit here and attempt to *disgust* anyone with the truth, nor will I defend my position with childish attacks such as I (and anyone else that isn’t giving you a pat on the back)have recieved here. Your own hateful words tell more about you than you could possibly know. Retract your claws, people, they’re much more dangerous than your poor cats’ were.
I am sure your experience with your vet and his/her laser machine was a very worthwhile investment, so if you need another pat on the back, your vet will give it to you, after all, you just paid them plenty for that. Your cat won’t give you it’s opinion, because you wouldn’t understand anyway.
Good Luck, and once again, congratulations!
Frankie came to my house 3 months ago as a stray. I suspect when someone moved out they left this sweet cat behind. Last month I had him neutered, vaccinated and blood work. I do not believe in outdoor cats, but already had 4 animals in my house. Within the last week he has come into my house. He is sweet, but he is a swatter. My 6 year old grandson has petted him nicely and talked to him. Frankie has swatted him several times leaving scratch marks on his face and legs. Because Frankie is moving in with my grandson and his mother I decided to have him laser declawed. I feel really guilty but have to think of my grandson too. I chose this method because it is not as painful and recovery time is minimal. I will keep him at my house for a few days until he can use regular litter as there are 2 other cats at his new home.
I haven’t taken the time to read through this long lasting debate, but I wanted to share my very recent experience with laser declawing. I’ve had my cat for a little over two years…it was actually a present from my wife at Christmas. We both love her immensely and treat her extraordinarily well.
I don’t feel the need to justify, but we made the decision to have her declawed with a laser due to the fact we are having our first child in 3 weeks, and also due to the major damage inflicted on our furniture. Like many on here, we’ve tried a whole host of alternatives before reaching this decision.
I went to a vet in the Nashville area that had a great deal of experience with laser declawing. He sat us down and talked to us about the procedure, and was extremely helpful.
My cat had the procedure down on Wednesday morning, and today (Friday morning) she is acting EXACTLY like she did before. Even when I first picked her up 24 hours ago, she was running and jumping (although you really have to try to keep them calm because they aren’t fully healed). I was very skeptical about the process, but I am absolutely stunned at the results. I wasn’t happy with the decision initially, as I didn’t want her to suffer any pain, but after seeing the results, I’m very comfortable with the decision.
I’m sure experiences will differ, but I really could not be any happier. She didn’t even favor her front paws at any point! She is chasing balls of paper, and still taking naps on my chest when I lay on the couch. I even rubbed her front paws today with my hand, and she just purred and didn’t even flinch.
Again, I’m sure some will have different experiences, but I did not see any sign of pain or behavioral change in my cat.
Jan, save your breath and don’t respond to me. People like you disgust me. You won’t even entertain the other side, and instead just lash out at any one who makes the decision to declaw. You’re setting the anti-declaw movement back with each post.
Yeah, connie-Unfortunatly I met far too many like you
In the last 14 years, I’ve had three cats declawed and all have turned out fine. And what is your platform for this knowledge that ehy have *turned out fine*– ? That they haven’t done anything to offend you?
Well YOU HAVE done PLENTY to offend them! The first two have passed on but lived happy and perfectly normal lives. The third cat is now 5 years old and does everything that any other cat does. My six month old kitten is getting declawed on Monday and I am confident that everything will work out fine for him too.
You, my dear, are a piece of work-I am not wishing you bad, since you do not think you are doing anything wrong, but what I wish for you is what you are treating your cats to. Nothing wrong with that , right?
In the last 14 years, I’ve had three cats declawed and all have turned out fine. The first two have passed on but lived happy and perfectly normal lives. The third cat is now 5 years old and does everything that any other cat does. My six month old kitten is getting declawed on Monday and I am confident that everything will work out fine for him too.
Monica, your comments are in no way hateful or disrespectful. However, you can easily see the haters popping up like weeds in an untended garden.
What I have found interesting in this little blog, is the fact
1) that many posts are written by one person (one computer, #)
2) whenever anyone writes a factual entry pertaining to the cruelty of declaw, that person becomes # 1 enemy, nasty, hateful, crazy etc. and is under attack by multiple personality disorders, LOL
3) this is not a debate about whether or not it is cruel to take a kitten’s fingers or toes, that is just common sense, a given, anyone saying it isn’t cruel is simply in total denial, looking for a nod, an approval, (anyone who doesn’t approve is surely insane)…
Hmmm, what is wrong with this picture???? Anyone???
This comment is for Jan. I just want to thank you for all of your comments on this site. You have really helped me to make up my mind. I now realize that the bile and vitriol behind these mad attacks of yours are surely a sign of mental illness. As such, I clearly must disregard your posts as the ravings of a troll. Thanks for making the choice even more clear.
Where in Chicago area can I find a vet that does laser declawing. I have a cat that attackes all my cats. If we can’t have this done, we will have to get rid of her. Help!!!!!
I did not state that you did not have compassion. I asked you “where is your compassion?” since you made reference to some people here not showing compassion to other people. I interpreted your post as a general attack on those who are trying to explain the issues surrounding the procedure. I haven’t yet found a vet that refers to 10 knuckle amputations as a minor procedure, but I have had them explain to me how painful it is.
I stand corrected, your earlier comments were much less caustic, I based my response on your statement that I have no compassion. I think I have the right to respond to such a personal attack. By the way, I’m a vegetarian; since you are very adamant about animal treatment you probably are as well. If not, you might want to watch the movie “Fast Food Nation”.
Diana, one more thing. Before you continue to assume what my opinion is about declawing, please make reference to post #4692 from February 13, 2007. This post will explain to you where I stand when it comes to declawing.
Diana, there is absolutely nothing hateful about my post to you. You’re the one coming on here calling people “narrow-minded and hateful”. Why, because they may not agree with you? I am simply explaining to you what a minor procedure is, and it’s not declawing. Especially when the vets explain how painful it is for the them. You’re right about one thing, I don’t know you. Just like you don’t know me. And you obviously haven’t read my recent posts, as they are not hateful whatsoever. If you’re looking for hateful sounding posts, maybe you should read this page from the beginning!
Monica’s comments are a prime example of the kind of rash, hateful and polarizing attitudes that are way too prevelant in our society. You ask “where is my compassion?”, you don’t even know me! You have no idea of the care I shower on my cats, my students, family, etc. as well as the time I donate to charities. I’d suggest you learn a little about civility, instead of condemning me because I disagree with your opinion. Well, I’m glad you at least can relate to cats, or so it seems.
By the way, I didn’t have to train my cat to have her claws trimmed as a kitten. I was just very patient and gentle, too bad I’m not compassionate.
^^ Unbelievable… Keep us posted if possible.
ALL THE DECLAW ADVOCATES MIGHT FIND THIS INTERESTING…
State of Nevada Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners
4600 Kietzke Lane, Bldg. O, #265
Reno, Nevada 89502
Re: Complaint against Elena M. Pederson DVM
Dear Sir or Madam:
My husband and I are avid cat lovers. We have one grand champion Siamese (that spent over 4 years in the show circuit) who is ten years old, and another cat we rescued from the humane society, who is five years old. We love our animals dearly, including “Romy” our new baby of the house and the subject of this complaint. Romy is an eight week old, healthy, mixed kitten. Suffice to say at this point our cats are truly members of our family.
In addition to the devotion we have for our animals, we are very, very much against a form of cat mutilation we call “declawing.” My other two cats have claws and they have had no problem with me trimming their nails and keeping them groomed when necessary. Romy was beginning to be trained this way as well. The thought of a cat getting declawed makes me physically ill. I have seen the procedure done, and I have witnessed problems that occur after. Allowing this form of mutilation upon animals, in my opinion, should be illegal. We all know there are alternative methods to keeping a cat from scratching, instead of removing their fingers right at the bone. While my political views at this point are possibly tiring to you, it does go to show that I would never put my animal through any of this.
At 7:30 a.m. on June 26, 2008, I took my eight week old, very healthy, female kitten “Romy” in for a regular spaying procedure at Advanced Animal Care. The kitten which I showed up with and the kitten I left with were completely different.
I showed up at Advanced Animal Care around 4:45 p.m. that afternoon to pick up Romy after her procedure. I was told when I arrived that it would be easier I paid right away, and then Dr. Elena Pederson would explain aftercare procedures to me. I paid a whopping $442 dollars, which I thought was rather excessive, but they assured me that it was due to the fact that I elected to get Romy’s surgery done with a laser, which was a bit more expensive, but cut down on the pain of the procedure. I then proceeded to the examination room to wait for Dr. Pederson. Romy was in her crate in the room.
Dr. Pederson entered the room a few minutes later and notified me that the surgery was successful. She then went on to explain what pain medication Romy was required to take and how often. She then paused … and stated “it was weird when she received Romy’s chart for surgery that day because it stated she was a male cat that needed to be neutered.” Taken aback for a moment, I sort of laughed it off and stated that “I hope they didn’t do that because otherwise the surgery wasn’t successful, as Romy is a female and does not have those parts.” Dr. Pederson paused again and then said she had to discuss another issue with me. At the same exact moment, she opened Romy’s cage and Romy came wobbling out, barely able to walk. Dr. Pederson informed me that the chart stated Romy was to be declawed as well.
I was hysterical and devastated to see my poor eight week old kitten barely able to move on the table. I started sobbing, as I knew she was in horrific pain. Dr. Pederson began to blame her staff for the mix-up and stated she had “high school students” doing the intake for the animals for surgery and they just simply “messed it up.” I then explained to her, in so many words, that I didn’t care who messed it up, it is her duty as a licensed veterinarian to confirm with the client that what is happening to the animal has occurred with informed consent They had not received my informed consent to rip my animals paws off: nor would they ever have.
Dr. Pederson reluctantly refunded my money, after various objections, and she stated that money isn’t the issue. At least I agreed with her at this point — there is nothing to fix what she did, it is irreversible. At that same notion, I was not going to be required to pay this woman for committing such a conversion.
Dr. Pederson had a duty as soon as she realized Romy was not a male and there even may have been some sort of a mix-up on the surgery table (which she admitted that there was) to get one of her “high school student” staff members to call me on the phone (at anyone of the three numbers they had for me and my husband) or better yet, to call me personally*. I have deep concern for any other person who brings in their beloved animal only to come out with something different, this cannot be tolerated.
There was no diligence at all in this case, not one person attempted to contact me. They simply mutilated my animal without a reasonable investigation, even after they knew that I had serious objections to such a procedure, as Romy had been seen twice by them prior to this day, and my objections were made loud and clear on both occasions and should have been noted on her chart. This was never done.
As well as my complaint to you regarding my botched up kitten, I will also be filing a lawsuit seeking damages. Though I do not believe it will make one bit of difference, as my kitten will never get her fingers back. At least I may be able to prevent this cruelty from happening again to someone.
*
I have requested my kitten’s chart from Dr. Pederson, but have yet to receive it, so I would appreciate being copied with the records from the Board, once they receive them, as well as being notified when the Board decides if they will take any disciplinary action against Dr. Pederson.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter and please feel free to contact me should you have any further question.
*
Very truly yours,
Mandy J. McKellar, Esq.
*
* See NAC 638.045 Malpractice, negligence and incompetence. (NRS 638.070,638.140)
1. Malpractice in the practice of veterinary medicine will be interpreted by the Board to include, without limitation, conduct which falls below the standard of care required of a licensed veterinarian under the circumstances which causes injury to an animal.
2. Negligence will be interpreted by the Board to mean a departure from the standard of practice of veterinary medicine.
3. Incompetence will be interpreted by the Board to mean a lack of knowledge, skill or ability in discharging a professional obligation. (Added to NAC by Bd. of Veterinary Med. Exam’rs, eff. 319-86; A 7-7-94; RI15-99, 12-7-99)
DIANA, how can you in your right mind refer to 10 knuckle amputations as a “minor procedure”? Where is the logic behind that statement? We’re not talking about a cat going in for dental cleaning or getting a simple tooth extraction. Now those are minor procedures. As for the nail clipping tolerance, this is learned by starting during the kitten phase. But then again, I did get my adult stray cat to become tolerant as well with constant praise, treats, and kisses between clippings. By the way, where is your compassion?
I clip my cat’s claws rather than having her declawed, but I realize that not all cats are as tolerant of this process. I did have a cat declawed many years ago and he never showed any sensitivity after the procedure. I have another cat that was declawed before I got her and is a happy and healthy cat.
I can’t believe that there are people so narrow-minded and hateful that they condemn someone for a relatively minor procedure that increases the chances a homeless cat will be placed in a loving home. Cruel? Cruel is leaving a cat in a cage or over-crowded shelter for years with a minimal amount of care and affection. That’s suffering over the long haul vs. a brief period of discomfort. It’s a shame that some people don’t show the compassion to other people that they claim to show to cats.
fair enough. i’m sure you’re closer than i – ever the optimist. guess i just wanted to avoid confusion between passion and vitriol. thanks for your insight.
i wish people took pets more seriously. then again, some people don’t even take children seriously. very sad. we were all “trained” to be the way we are, some just not well and perpetuate that cycle. explains the struggle to train…a cat. mine gives high fives. cutest thing ever.
Arok!
Right you are, but my experience in a vet’s office where they declaw has brought me to afirm my thoughts on people who opt to declaw.
We try to educate people on proper training of the feline with PROPER tall posts and trees with the PROPER covering (berber,and or sisal)-
we even had two cats living there that were proof. bothe liked to scrach things, both were over 2 when they were rescued and both easily learned to use posts.
Still… SOME people just weren’t *interested*. One lady, after having her two beautiful chinchilla cats declawed (all 4 no less), came back into the office and complained the cats didn’t like to play with her kids anymore, started hiding, and besides she was tired of hair all over the place so did we know anyone who would like them? Free?
Most people who declaw have not come here to learn, they come here looking for others to give them the *OK*, or to reenforce their own decision to have it done…trust me on that one.
Thanks, Christine-
Declawing is CRUEL, PERIOD. I am sure you would *live* without your fingers too, you would *adjust*-maybe, but maybe not…or without your toes, now there’s a pleasant thought, eh?
Although declawing is compared to chopping off your fingers at the first knuckle, you still have appendage left, right? They Do not!
They use their front claws like FINGERS!
Use their back claws like toes (plus)
You really don’t need the mind of a genius to know declawing is cruel, but it’s funny how people will give all these lame excuses for a cruelty that is OUTLAWED IN 23 COUNTRIES/ That feline EXPERTS will tell you is wrong,wrong,wrong.
Actual fact # 1: * Most cats relinquished to shelters for behavioral reasons are there because of misuse of the litterbox, NOT clawing-75% of those euthanized for behavioral reasons are also DECLAWED! 25% of these are PUREBRED!
Actual fact # 2: When a cat is relinquished for *destruction of property*-if clawing comes to mind, you are mistaken, however if one Specifies destruction as the misuse of the litterbox by the majority of cats who have been declawed vs. those with claws intact, one would find this a true statement. More declawed cats actually lose their homes than clawed!
Actual Fact # 3: In MOST cases, owners don’t even give training a CHANCE! Scratching posts are a must to owning a kitten or cat, and can and do work in virtually ALL cases, IF the right one is used! NEVER get a cutesy fluffy scratching post aimed at *pleasing PEOPLE’S eyes* rather than a cat’s claws! Posts must be TALL, STURDY, covered in plain tight-weave carpet such as Berber, or sisal rope or fabric, and properly placed where it will be used! Cats are presented to veterinarians for declaw because veterinarians aren’t telling them it is totally UNNECESARY! People have been mutilating for decades now because the believe they MUST. So easy to TRAIN, so cruel to MAIM!
Actual Fact # 4 : The American Veterinarian’s Association fought the anit-declaw laws tooth and nail. Far too much money is being brought into clinics by declaw surgery to allow such a law to go into effect. The fact is, declawing is a CASH COW. Who will spear the Cash cow? THIS alone is the MAIN reason laws are being thwarted, NOT because it isn’t indeed a cruelty! When should cruelty be offered as a choice?
Actual Fact # 5: There IS no humane way to do 10 AMPUTATIONS! Although Laser surgery is less invasive in many surgery cases, with declaw, the result is the same, 10 painful amputations, amputations that will require immediate pain management meds just like the guillotine method! Long term effects will be the same, the cat is STILL minus integral and most important parts needed for it’s life’s function! With the astronomical cost of Laser machines one would hope there would be enough surgeries (other that the maiming of declaws) to warrant it’s expense.
Declawing is cruel. It is banned in most civilized countries. Why are we in America so far behind in the dark ages? So vets can make more money. Try chopping off your fingers at the knuckle and see how you feel before doing it to a cat.
I entirely understand what you’re saying. I work as a receptionist at a pet hospital and just recently took an inquiry about euthanizing a dog because the owner was fed up with dealing with ‘potty” training. There are many people who don’t deserve to own pets because they are so self-centered.
Alternately, this is a place for people to come to be educated. We should give them some credit for seeking information as it’s obvious they already live with the pet and are at a crossroads. Many don’t even go to that extent and we should appreciate that they care enough to seek the right decision.
Declawing is wrong, inhumane and painful and people need to know that. Save the extreme judgement attacks so as not to alienate people who obviously care enough to be here.
In the same respect, being too lazy to take the time to train your cat does not legitimize their suffering for your convenience. I was caught deep by a claw just the other day, but I was playing with the cat. I was having fun and so was he. It did hurt but I forgot to clip him and I don’t blame the cat for it’s inherent predator nature and my playing into that. Also, it took me no more than 2 weeks to train my 2 yr old to scratch a post instead of furniture. Not too rough and very easy if your cat appreciates love and treats.
Lisa, Thank you, for a very inteligent post!
The problem is, if people can’t take the time to train a pet they shouldn’t have one. The animal always suffers in the end, when they’re declawed, and later when they are *disposed of* because of not using the litterbox, biting, or other problems that crop up in years to come.
No, not all symptoms are recognisable by the average person not knowledgable about feline care and behavior, but if you fear the claws of a cat, please, DON’T GET ONE!
This is the 21st century, not the dark ages. We supposedly live in acivilized country where cruelty is prohibited, yet the money vets make by declawing, and a whining lazy pet owner don’t care that 23 other countries BAN it…why do ya suppose that is??? Hmmm?
Cindy, a cat scratch is not “very painful”, as you put it. I used to get scratched all the time when the kittens where young and their nails not trimmed. I have a very low pain tolerance, and did not find them painful whatsoever. But I am sure that I would find it painful to get all my knuckles amputated. If you want to discuss pain, you really should look at the whole picture.
I am so sick of these nutso cat crazy rescue stay at home moms with nothing better to do that judge people all day long. GET A LIFE!!!! If someone wants there cat declawed then let it happen it is very painful to be scratched by a cat. I just bought my kitty last night and he was scratching the heck out of me last and I am seriously thinking this needs to be done. I have a six year old and his scratches hurt me and will be even worse for my son.
Chuck,
To find a vet who performs laser declaw, you may try this web site:
Good luck.
Thank you everyone for your help. I love my cat but must get him declawed as he still, even after nail trims, scratching posts, soft paws, etc., scratches the leather furniture, walls and carpet. The alternative is finding him a home or shelter. That would devastate my kids. So if anyone could point me the right direction for laser removel in the Boston area, I would appreciate it. Thanks