Veterinary Association Position Statements on Declawing in Cats

Declawing (onychectomy) cats is controversial and is opposed by most veterinary medical associations, which guide veterinarians to provide alternatives to declawing, unless it is done for medical necessity, such as tumor removal or another medical condition.

Veterinary Association guidelines and position statements (listed alphabetically):

• American Animal Hospital Association Position Statement

• American Veterinary Medical Association Guidelines

• Feline Veterinary Medical Association Guidelines

• International Society of Feline Medicine Position Statement

• World Small Animal Veterinary Association's Animal Wellness and Welfare Committee Position Statement

Declawing has been outlawed in several US states and many countries. Declawing is more than trimming or removing the claw. During the surgical procedure, the third bone in the toe is removed (amputated). It may cause lasting pain and behavioral issues in cats. Usually, pet owners seek this solution when their cat has been scratching in unacceptable areas of their home. Scratching is a normal behavior in cats. Pet caregivers should understand this and learn to redirect the behavior to appropriate surfaces.

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